Produce a Critical Review:
Learners will produce a written critical review of 2,000 words. The review will critically outline:
i) key features of three different qualitative research methods encountered on the module
ii) how these qualitative research methods were used to study specific topics in criminology or criminal justice
iii) the study findings that the method was able to generate
iv) strengths and limitations associated with these different qualitative methods
Critical review (weighted at 100% meets Learning outcomes 1-3)

This module introduces students to a variety of qualitative research methods that researchers use to study issues in Criminology and Criminal justice. Qualitative methods covered on this module include: discourse analysis, in-depth interviews and elicitation techniques, methods for interviewing groups, ethnography and participant observation, using digital methods to study online communities. Students will also learn the importance of carrying out research ethically. Throughout, learners are given the opportunity to use these various methods and techniques giving them an appreciation of the processes involved in generating knowledge. Students will also undertake various tasks that starts them on a journey that encourages them to research and think about the skills, competencies and experiences they need to realise their career aspirations.

The 14% scheduled activities, 86% independent guided study:

14% scheduled activities comprise:

13 two-hour seminars

Lectures in semester one invite students to discover various qualitative research methods: including in-depth interviewing individuals and techniques for interviewing groups, ethnographic research and participant observation, discourse analysis and how qualitative methods can be used to study online communities.

Students’ learning is consolidated through hands-on activities in the workshops which include a series of practical exercises designed to allow students to become familiar with different qualitative research methods and allow them to practice and develop research skills.

During the 86% independent-guided study students are given some specific tasks to complete which include:

Completing small preparatory tasks before the workshop which will be used in activities during taught sessions to enhance their understanding of qualitative methods.

Students will also be required to complete weekly readings relevant to each week’s topic which will give students a deeper understanding of the topics, how specific academics applied particular qualitative research methods to criminological/criminal justice topics in order that students gain a richer and more detailed understanding of what kinds of knowledge using a particular research method can generate about everyday life.

Across the module, students will engage in tasks as part of their learning that allows them to develop crucial competencies and research skills (such as critical thinking, note taking, writing, avoiding plagiarism and referencing).

Individual tutorial support will be provided on request and students will be encouraged to seek individual tutorial guidance if required.

Students will be given informal feedback about their progress during lectures and workshops.

Independent research of a specific career that a criminology or criminal justice graduate might pursue on graduation.

Bryman, A., (2012). Social Research Methods. Fourth edition. Oxford. Oxford University press

May, T., (2011). Social Research, Issues, Methods and Process. Fourth Edition. Buckingham. Open University Press

Corbetta, P., (2003). Social Research. Theory, Methods and Technique. Translated from the Italian ¿ B Patrick. London. Sage

Ritchie, J., Lewis, J., McNaughton Nicholls, C., and Ormston, R., (2014). Qualitative Research Practice, A guide for Social Science Students and Researchers. London. Sage

Mason, J., (2018). Qualitative Researching. Third Edition. London. Sage.

A flat lecture/workshop computer lab/room flexible enough for paired and small group work and a computer and projector for PowerPoint presentations.

The Blackboard virtual learning environment will be available (where relevant) to support this module. Details will be supplied in the module handbook.

1. Convey understanding of key features of several qualitative research methods encountered on the module
Knowledge/understanding; enquiry, analysis communication

2. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding about how qualitative methods encountered on the module can be used to study a topic in criminology or criminal justice
Knowledge and Understanding, Application

3. Demonstrate knowledge of strengths and limitations of several research methods encountered on the module
Knowledge and understanding, enquiry, communication