Overview

This module focuses on the different methodologies and approaches to research relevant to children and young people. The module is specifically designed to prepare you for your dissertation in year 3. It involves designing, conducting and writing up your own mini research project in semester 1 as well as formulating a research proposal for your dissertation in semester 2, under the guidance of a project supervisor. You will be able to choose the theme for your dissertation from a range of relevant research topics on offer. You will learn about the different methods of collecting data, the important ethical considerations when conducting research with children and young people, and how to design a research project to test your hypotheses. The module is assessed based on a mini project report in semester 1 and the research proposal in semester 2.

The module focuses on: •research skills, dissertation writing skills, and choosing the right methodology for the students' research field;
•principal modes of data collection, including interviews, focus groups, and questionnaires. •examples from the lecturer’s own research and from other work within the School including the experiences of doctoral and post doctoral researchers. •philosophic bases of research, discussing and explaining the nature of a dissertation and identifying and selecting an area of study; •main concepts involved in forming the questions to be studied and making a hypothesis.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -(C) A satisfactory knowledge and understanding of ethical issues regarding researching with children, the ability to select methodology and be able to design and present a plan for a research project.

-good -(B) A good knowledge and understanding of ethical issues regarding researching with children, the ability to select appropriate methodology and be able to design and present a robust plan for a research project.

-excellent - (A) A comprehensive knowledge and in depth understanding of ethical issues regarding researching with children, the ability to select appropriate methodology from a range of sources, and be able to design and present a polished and comprehensive plan for a research project.

Learning Outcomes

• Confidently and competently present prepared and impromptu speeches

• Critically discuss academic, peer-reviewed literature that is relevant to the research topic

• Critically discuss the different methods of research, and be able to reflect critically on their limitations and advantages in relation to a range of contexts

• Demonstrate critical understanding of the range of ethical considerations of undertaking research with children and young people and be able to evaluate the various methods

• Demonstrate critical understanding of the content of a good research report

• Evaluate key theories and debates in research methodology, including the significance of qualitative and quantitative research approaches, and understand how they relate to researching with children and young people

• Formulate a research proposal, including selecting appropriate research methods, on a topic relating to children and young people