Overview

This module will outline alternative methodological positions (and their relations to ontological and epistemological positions) that can be taken by researchers and cover their impact on the research process. The research process will be covered in detail and includes a focus on developing research aims, objectives, and questions that that underpin a research problem. The use of theory in the research process, including ways of making a theoretical contribution will be introduced in addition to developing conceptual models. Methods and skills for data collection and analysis will also be covered, including qualitative and quantitative approaches, such as case study design, survey research design, grounded theory analysis, and critical discourse analysis.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -Satisfactory standard (C- to C+):No major omissions or inaccuracies in the deployment of information/skills.Some grasp of theoretical/conceptual/practical elements.Integration of theory/practice/information present intermittently in pursuit of the assessed work’s objectives.

-good -Average Standard (B- to B+):Much of the relevant information and skills mostly accurately deployed.Adequate grasp of theoretical/conceptual/practical elements.Fair integration of theory/practice/information in the pursuit of the assessed work's objectives.Some evidence of the use of creative and reflective skills.High Standard (65-69%):Very good performanceMost of the relevant information accurately deployed.Good grasp of theoretical/conceptual/practical elements.Good integration of theory/practice/information in pursuit of the assessed work'sobjectives.Evidence of the use of creative and reflective skills.

-excellent -Excellent standard (A- to A*):An outstanding performance, exceptionally able. The relevant information accurately deployed. Excellent grasp of theoretical/conceptual/practice elements. Good integration of theory/practice/information in pursuit of the assessed work's objectives. Strong evidence of the use of creative and reflective skills.

Learning Outcomes

• Critically analyse alternative epistemological positions that provide the context for theory construction, research design, and the selection of appropriate analytical techniques.

• Demonstrate an understanding of the principles of the scientific method.

• Develop a critical understanding of the formulation of the research problem. Including demonstrating the ability to clearly detail and critically evaluate research aims, objectives, questions, and hypotheses.

• Develop an understanding of the rationale in choosing particular methods and analysis techniques and critically analyse how such choices influence theory generation and testing.

• Understand the basic principles of research design and strategy.