Course Details in 2018/19 Session

Module Title	LM Social Research Methods I
School	COS - College Hub
Department	COS - College Hub
Module Code	08 21879
Module Lead	Harriet Clarke and Graeme Douglas
Level	Masters Level
Credits	20
Semester	Semester 2
Pre-requisites
Co-requisites
Restrictions	MA Social Research
Exclusions
Description	The module will focus on the different stages of data collection, indicating how various methods of obtaining data can be used to gather both textual and numerical data. The importance of team solutions to larger scale data collection will also be covered. This module introduces students to the principles and practice of data collection, collation and analysis, with a focus on deepening understanding of the rationale for choosing appropriate methods throughout the conduct of a study. Teaching and learning exercises demonstrate the value of research skills in relation to both textual and numeric data. The module develops understanding and experience of different stages of the research process, indicating how various methods of obtaining, managing and analysing data can be used with textual and numerical data (with reference to different methodologies). The import of ethical practice in research development, collection, collation, analysis and dissemination is stressed throughout. The development of appropriate research questions and sampling are reprised from the design module, explaining both that appropriate research populations and methods are determined from the research questions and the perspective or conceptual framework which informs them. The module provides a detailed map of a range of collection and analysis methods (many of which are developed within this module and Methods 2, some of which are further developed in short modules). Experience in developing data collection and analysis methods is supported (covering different ‘modes’, e.g. face-to-face and self-completion survey methods and the collection of data through open or semi-structured interviews). Finally, students will apply their learning to their own personal research field.
Learning Outcomes	By the end of the module students should be able to: Recognise the value of a range of data collection and descriptive analysis methods and identify which are best suited to address specific research aims / questions; Engage with methodology alongside methods, and cross reference them with other relevant modules; Demonstrate critical awareness of the impact of the social context in which research takes place, so show understanding of the ‘social construction’ of data and issues of power and perspective in the conduct of research; Consider issues concerning identifying and negotiating with the principal stakeholders in their research arena; Operationalise concepts accurately in actual research; Understand the development of research questions and selection of appropriate sampling, data collection and analysis methods, in terms of exploratory research; Critically evaluate decision making in relation to appropriate selection of research arenas, samples, cases, and respondents to generate both textual and numerical data; Design and carry out a wide variety of data collection strategies e.g. questionnaire surveys, open or semi-structured interviews; Understand the basic principles and assumptions of descriptive statistical methods and of exploratory thematic analysis of textual data; Interpret descriptive and basic inferential statistical methods as presented in published work, and where appropriate apply to their own research questions with some reference to research tools (e.g. software packages); Develop primary themes in qualitative analysis with some reference to research tools (e.g. software packages); Understand practical issues in the field, specifically in relation to the ethical conduct of data collection, analysis and dissemination; Accurately, critically and reflectively transfer learning from group research activity to their own field.
Assessment	21879-01 : Essay : Coursework (100%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions	Assessments: 4,000 word individual assignment Reassessment: by 4,000 word assignment
Other	None
Reading List