This module provides an introduction to some of the most popular methods for analysing data in the Social Sciences. It deepens students' understanding of research methods acquired in their first year by focusing on knowledge and skills necessary to plan and deliver these key data analyses to a high standard, using specialist software. In the course of Social Research II, students will develop a critical understanding of how and when to use quantitative and qualitative techniques to analyse data.
They will be given the opportunity to apply those techniques in workshops using up-to-date software where appropriate.
Students will also engage with broader questions of research design such as developing a research focus and question, methods selection and research ethics, which will be helpful as they prepare to engage their dissertation project in the final year.
In equipping students to carry out data analysis and research design, this module will develop a range of abilities that are highly valued by academic and other employers, including higher-level IT skills, data manipulation, interpretation and presentation, working with others, readiness to accept responsibility and effective time management.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Understand and critically evaluate the theoretical basis for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of social data.
Understand and apply appropriate techniques to the analysis of qualitative interview, textual, quantitative and multi-source data.
Appreciate the potential for, and limitations of, computer aided qualitative and quantitative analysis, and be able to deploy the SPSS and NVivo software programs appropriately for this purpose.
Design and deliver rigorous data analysis that addresses a given research question using specific quantitative and qualitative methods.
Produce a logically structured written report on a data analysis project following typical social science standards.
