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Introduction to Social Research (a)

Module Details for Introduction to Social Research SOU22011 (Part 1MT) PREREQUISITE FOR SOCIOLOGY CAPSTONE


Module Code

SOU22011


Module Name

Introduction to Social Research


Module Short Title

Qualitative Research


ECTS weighting

5 ECTS


Semester/term taught

Michaelmas Term


Module Content

This course is designed to introduce you to the principles and methods of qualitative research. At the beginning of this course, we will examine the place of qualitative research in the field of sociology as well as the relationship between qualitative and quantitative methodology. Over the course of the semester, we will examine some of the main methods used by qualitative researchers in the social sciences such as participant observation, interviewing and focus groups. We will analyse the comparative strengths and weaknesses of each method. You will also have the opportunity to gain experience doing a hands-on interview assignment that is part of the assessment for this part of the course.
Learning Objectives

Students successfully completing the module will be able to:

  • Acquiring a firm understanding of the nature of quantitative research and various quantitative research designs;
  • Overview to the range of methods and tools used in quantitative social research;
  • Select and apply appropriate research methods for investigating social phenomena;
  • Assess the strength and weaknesses of selected methodologies;
  • Collect, analyse and report quantitative data appropriately;
  • Summarise and critically discuss sociological research.

This course has several primary objectives. One goal is to familiarise you with the methodological and epistemological debates concerning qualitative research. The second is to give you a number of practical, applied tools during the course of the semester. The third objective is to give you an opportunity to practice and implement these tools, and reflect on the research experience. The fourth is to read and discuss work by qualitative researchers, especially focusing on the lessons they learned and the challenges they faced.


Recommended Reading List

  


Module Pre Requisite

SOU11011/2/3/4


Module Co Requisite

SOU22012


Assessment Details

Coursework (100%).

Attendance at tutorials is compulsory. Failure to attend at least half of the tutorials will automatically result in a 10% deduction (one full grade) from the overall module grade.

Without an authorised extension, the mark given will be lowered by one grade