Semester 1
In semester 1 you will be introduced to the theory and practice of qualitative methods. The module will address, in particular, the: (a) range of different methods utilised in social research (b) different methodological approaches used to inform research practice and their relationship to wider theories of knowledge (c) qualitative research process and its iterative stages (d) similarities and differences between different methods and their strengths and weaknesses (e) skills and techniques necessary to undertake specific forms of research (f) use of information and communication technologies to record, analyse and communicate qualitative research data (g) importance of values and ethics in social research (h) importance of social divisions and differences in analysing and interpreting data.

Semester 2
In semester 2 students will be taught the necessary skills and competencies for undertaking a community-based research project. In addition to teaching students the necessary research skills, the module will also look at the ethical and moral problems inherent in such research. Research projects will be based upon one or more of the following research techniques:- (a) quantitative research based primarily upon questionnaires; (b) ethnography and observations; (c) qualitative research and in-depth interviews in particular; and (d) secondary data sources. The following questions and research techniques will be addressed during the module:- (a) the development and refinement of a community-based research problem or hypothesis using literature searches and exploratory research; (b) ethical problems and dilemmas facing those researching the community; (c) introduction to secondary data sources in the social sciences and community-based research; (d) data collection, using a variety of research techniques; (e) analysing research findings; (f) writing up research findings in both a summary and scholarly form.

Bell, J. (2010) Doing Your Research Project. Open University
Bryman, A. (2012) Social Research Methods. Oxford University Press
Denscombe, M. (2010) The Good Research Guide. Maidenhead: Op. UP.
Gilbert, N. (2nd) (2008) Researching Social Life. London: Sage.
Hammersley, M. (2011) Methodology: who needs it? Sage
Jones, J. and Watt, S. (2010) Ethnography in Social Science Practice. Routledge
May, T. (2011) Social Research. Open University
Seale, C.. (2004) Researching Society and Culture. London: Sage.
Silverman, D. (2011) Qualitative Research. Sage

Library based hard copy and e-resources
A computer laboratory with a projector for a PowerPoint presentation and large enough for group work
Computers with Microsoft Office, PowerPoint, and Accessibility Software
The Blackboard virtual learning environment will be available (where relevant) to support this module. Details will be supplied in the module handbook.

Semester 1
Lecture presentations will communicate the key ideas and issues regarding the main approaches to social research. Each approach will be dealt with in terms of its strengths and weakness, and potential applications. The lectures will also address the more practical and technical aspects of using specific methods and analysing and communicating the research results.

Students will be expected to carry out small pieces of applied research using a range of different methods. This will involve engaging with the different stages of the research process from the formulation of a strategy to the analysis and writing up of the data. The pieces of research will be undertaken independently by students but will be supported in practical workshops which will enable students to practice and refine their research skills, receive formative feedback and to engage in peer review and learning.

In addition to the workshops tutors will provide on-demand guidance - online and face to face - to support student's ongoing work on their research work. The latter will also be supported by guided reading and instructional materials utilising problem-based learning techniques.

Semester 2
In semester 2 tutors deploy a variety of learning strategies, depending on the particular project selected. Among those which students experience are:- (a) Group work to formulate and develop a research strategy and to define the research objectives. (b) Practical workshops to identify and refine appropriate research instruments and techniques. (c) Computer-based workshops (processing, manipulating, analysing, accessing data) (d) Individually or in sub-groups, library and information searches related to the project. (e) Accessing relevant course materials on the Internet and other electronic learning resources. (f) Working in teams to ensure the efficient conduct and conclusion of the project.


Key Information Set:
16% scheduled learning and teaching activities comprising:
Lectures
Workshops
Formative assessments

84% guided independent learning activities comprising:
Independent research
Analysis and processing of research data
Writing up and communication of research results
Guided reading and secondary research
Individual tutorials
Preparation for scheduled sessions
Completion and submission of assessment tasks

Portfolio 1 (50%) [LO 1, 2, 3 and 4]
Portfolio 2 (50%) [LO 5, 6 and 7]

Key Information Set:
100% Coursework