Module Descriptors
PRACTITIONER RESEARCH METHODS IN EDUCATION
XXXX76805
Key Facts
Faculty of Business, Education and Law
Level 7
15 credits
Hours of Study
Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: 18
Independent Study Hours: 132
Total Learning Hours: 150
Assessment
- RESEARCH PROPOSAL weighted at 40%
- ANALYSIS weighted at 60%
Module Details
Module Resources
University library for a range of relevant texts, journals and germane resources including
Internet access to relevant websites.
Key reader:
DENSCOMBE, M. (2003) The good research guide for small-scale research projects. 2nd Edition, Maidenhead: Open University Press.
Recommended reading:
BELL, J. (1999) Doing your research project. 3rd Edition, Buckingham: Open University Press
Cohen, L. (2000) Research methods in education. 5th Edition, London. Routledge Falmer
DENSCOMBE, M. (2002) Ground rules for good research, a 10 point guide for social researchers. Buckingham: Open University Press
Internet access to relevant websites.
Key reader:
DENSCOMBE, M. (2003) The good research guide for small-scale research projects. 2nd Edition, Maidenhead: Open University Press.
Recommended reading:
BELL, J. (1999) Doing your research project. 3rd Edition, Buckingham: Open University Press
Cohen, L. (2000) Research methods in education. 5th Edition, London. Routledge Falmer
DENSCOMBE, M. (2002) Ground rules for good research, a 10 point guide for social researchers. Buckingham: Open University Press
Module Texts
Students will be expected to carry out a thorough literature search, which should include texts, journals, websites, and other germane resources that are pertinent to the learning outcomes and the issues or strategies that form the focus of the module.
Current thinking from the identified resources should be embedded within the Summative assessments and should inform all critical and reflective practice related to the study of the module.
Current thinking from the identified resources should be embedded within the Summative assessments and should inform all critical and reflective practice related to the study of the module.
Module Learning Strategies
The module will include a range of teaching and learning strategies including lectures, seminars, workshops, on-line discussion forums, focus groups and student centred activities.
Module Additional Assessment Details
Component 1:
Produce a realistic research proposal in a set format, which demonstrates knowledge and understanding of the three paradigm approach to research and associated methodologies.
(40% weighting) Learning outcomes 1 & 2
Component 2:
Use a suggested framework to present a 2000 word critique of a current research paper (from a choice of 3). The critique should demonstrate knowledge and understanding of applied research techniques and should highlight the strengths, weaknesses and limitations of research in the context of the chosen paper. (60% weighting) Learning outcomes 3 & 4
Produce a realistic research proposal in a set format, which demonstrates knowledge and understanding of the three paradigm approach to research and associated methodologies.
(40% weighting) Learning outcomes 1 & 2
Component 2:
Use a suggested framework to present a 2000 word critique of a current research paper (from a choice of 3). The critique should demonstrate knowledge and understanding of applied research techniques and should highlight the strengths, weaknesses and limitations of research in the context of the chosen paper. (60% weighting) Learning outcomes 3 & 4
Module Indicative Content
The module provides students with opportunities to gain knowledge, understanding and experience of practitioner research methods and approaches in the context of post compulsory education. The content will be based on the three paradigm approach to research that is commonly applied by researchers and practitioners in `Education and the Social Sciences?. The module will typically include the following topics:
What is research: an introduction to linear & cyclical approaches in the field of Education.
The `Case Study? approach: strengths & limitations of small scale research.
The 3 paradigms: interpretivism, positivism & action research.
Collecting data.
Analysing data.
Designing a research proposal.
Reading & critiquing research: a common framework.
Claims, conclusions and evidence: plausibility & credibility.
Assessment workshop.
What is research: an introduction to linear & cyclical approaches in the field of Education.
The `Case Study? approach: strengths & limitations of small scale research.
The 3 paradigms: interpretivism, positivism & action research.
Collecting data.
Analysing data.
Designing a research proposal.
Reading & critiquing research: a common framework.
Claims, conclusions and evidence: plausibility & credibility.
Assessment workshop.
Module Special Admissions Requirements
All participants must currently be a practitioner within higher and post compulsory education.