Overview

Weekly lectures will introduce students to fundamentals of research: Research Basics (Research Theory; Research Ethics; Data, information and knowledge); Finding and Reviewing the Literature; Research Methods (Primary and Secondary data sources; Collecting and Analysing Data; Digital Humanities research); and Structuring the Research Project. Weekly practical sessions will apply these concepts and skills to three short inquiries and the development of a research proposal.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -D- to D+* Has developed a basic level of factual and conceptual understanding of the subject; Reading/research is limited to that gained through class contact; * There is some evidence of analysis and evaluation but work is mainly descriptive with an uncritical acceptance of information, and unsubstantiated opinions may be evident; Lack of logical development of an argument; * Shows a limited understanding of the application of research-informed literature or attempt to apply knowledge across situations; Responses may not be meaningful; * Structure is weak and/or inconsistent and lacking in sequential development; Mistakes in grammar or syntax; Immature style; Citations and bibliography poorly or inconsistently presented; Demonstrates few qualities and transferable skills required for employment; * Some evidence of ability to collect appropriate data/ information and undertake straightforward research tasks with external guidance; * Can communicate in a range of formats, including orally, appropriate to the discipline(s), but with evident weaknesses; * Can work effectively with others as a member of a group, and meet most obligations to others (e; g; tutors and peers); * Able to recognise own strengths and weaknesses in relation to professional and practical skills identified by others, but lacking insight in some areas;

-good -C- to B+* Has developed a sound understanding of the subject appropriate to this level; There is evidence of wider reading which goes beyond that gained from tutor contact; * Intelligent attempt at analysing and evaluating information; Well argued with appropriate amount of evidence, substantiated opinions are given; * Can apply knowledge of research-informed literature to different contexts and generate a range of responses to given situations; * Structure is coherent and logical showing progression to the argument; There are few mistakes in presentation or citation; Demonstrates qualities and transferable skills required for employment; * Can collect and interpret appropriate data/ information and undertake straightforward research tasks with external guidance; * Can communicate effectively in a range of formats, including orally, appropriate to the discipline(s); * Can work effectively with others as a member of a group, and meet obligations to others (eg tutors and peers); * Able to evaluate own strengths and weaknesses in relation to professional and practical skills identified by others;

-excellent -__A- to A__ Has developed a broad factual and conceptual understanding of the subject relative to the level through extensive reading; * Has analysed and evaluated information using defined techniques & principles; Can collate and categorise ideas and information and can select what is relevant to support analysis and evaluation and develop a coherent argument, appropriate to the level of development; Has developed an early critical approach to information; * Can generate a range of appropriate responses to given problems, some of which may be innovative; good reference to and application of research –informed literature; * Well-organised presentation which develops flow and progression in a well-structured argument; Syntax/grammar indicates an appropriate level of maturity; Demonstrates a broad range of qualities and transferable skills required for employment; * Can collect and interpret appropriate data and successfully undertake research tasks with a degree of autonomy; * Can communicate very effectively in a range of formats, including orally, appropriate to the discipline(s); * Can work very effectively with others as a member of a group, showing leadership skills where appropriate, and meet all obligations to others (eg tutors and peers);

Learning Outcomes

• Apply appropriate research methods to specific research questions, goals and/or objectives

• Articulate a research question, goal or objective that is focused, researchable and relevant

• Cite sources appropriately, using quotation, paraphrase and referencing

• Locate, identify and evaluate primary and secondary sources

• Plan an enquiry-based project that is rigorous, practical and ethical