CARE08076 2022 Social Science Research Methods
This module introduces students to research methods in a systematic fashion. It builds on basic ideas of research discussed in the previous two years of the programme. It explores the nature of the social scientific method and research skills as applied to the design, collection, analysis, management, and interpretation of data. This module will also provide students with an overview of epistemological and ontological issues in relation to the social research process.
This module maps to the CORU Standards of Proficiency below:
Domain 1: Professional Autonomy and Accountability
Domain 2: Communication, Collaborative Practice and Team working
Domain 3: Safety & Quality
Domain 4: Professional Development
Domain 5: Professional Knowledge and Skills
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this module the learner will/should be able to;
Have an advanced understanding of social research strategies (Domain: 1.1, 5.1, 5.2, 5.5, 5.6, 5.15)
Identify and evaluate ethics in social research (Domain: 1.10, 1.11, 1.12, 1.13, 1.15, 1.16, 1.18, 3.6, 4.4, 5.5, 5.6, 5.15, 5.17)
Explain and apply the techniques of research practice (Domain: 1.15, 1.16, 1.18, 2.6, 3.6, 4.5, 5.2, 5.5, 5.6, 5.17)
Critically read, summarise and synthesise relevant literature(Domain: 1.1, 5.1, 5.2, 5.5, 5.6, 5.15)
Teaching and Learning Strategies
The model of learning emphasises a shared learning experience, peer support, and guidance from the lecturer.
Independent learning required
Module Assessment Strategies
The module assessment allows for assessment of CORU Standards of Proficiency as follows:
Literature Review Group Project: Domain 1.13, 1.16, 1.18, 2.6, 3.6, 4.5, 5.15, 5.17 (LO 4)
Research Proposal: Domain 1.1, 1.10, 1.11, 1.12, 1.13, 1.15, 1.16, 1.18, 2.6, 3.6, 4.4, 4.5, 5.1, 5.2, 5.5, 5.6, 5.15, 5.17 (LO 1, 2, 3)
Repeat Assessments
Repeat written assignments
Module Dependencies
Indicative Syllabus
1. Social research strategies
- Theory and research
- Epistemological considerations
- Ontological considerations
- Qualitative and Quantitative research
2. Ethics and equality in social research
- Discourses of ethics and equality in research practice
- Codes of ethics of SAI, PSI, BSA and other relevant bodies
- Anti-oppressive practice within research
3. Advanced research design and practice
· defining the topic
· designing a research project
· developing research questions
· writing a proposal
· conducting a literature review
· data collection: qualitative and quantitative approaches
· data management
· analysing qualitative and quantitative data
· assessing the work of researchers
· describe different and competing research on similar topics
Coursework & Assessment Breakdown
Coursework Assessment
Title | Type | Form | Percent | Week | Learning Outcomes Assessed | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Research Proposal | Coursework Assessment | Assignment | 60 % | End of Term | 1,2,3 |
2 | Literature Review | Coursework Assessment | Group Project | 40 % | Week 6 | 4 |
Full Time Mode Workload
Type | Location | Description | Hours | Frequency | Avg Workload |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Lecture | Lecture Theatre | Lecture | 2 | Weekly | 2.00 |
Lecture | Flat Classroom | Tutorial | 1 | Weekly | 1.00 |
Independent Learning | Not Specified | Independent learning | 3 | Weekly | 3.00 |
Module Resources
Baker, T. (1994) Doing social research. New York: McGraw Hill.
Ballinger, B. (2001) The curious researcher: A guide to writing research papers. Pearson.
Bell, J. and S. Waters (2014) Doing your own research project. London: OUP, 6th edition.
Bryman, A (2016) Social research methods. Oxford: Oxford University Press. 5th edition.
Bulmer, M. (1984) Sociological research methods. London: Macmillan.
Creswell, J. (2013) Qualitative Inquiry and Research Design. London: Sage
Denscombe, M (2007) The good research guide for small-scale research projects. Berkshire: Open University Press. 3rd edition
Edwards, A. and R. Talbot (1999) The hard-pressed researcher: A research handbook for the caring professions. New York: Longman.
Hughes, J. (1997) The philosophy of social research. London: Longman.
Humphries, B. (ed) (2000) Research in social care and social welfare. London: Jessica Kingsley.
Kane, E. and M. O’ Reilly De Brun (2001) Doing your own research. London: Boyars.
May, T. (2011) Social research. London: OUP. 4th edition.
Robert-Holmes, G. (2005) Doing Your Early Years Research Project. London: Sage.
Sarantakos, S. (2012) Social research. London: Palgrave Macmillan, 4th edition.
Seale, C. (2012) Researching Society and Culture. London: Sage
http://www.everydaysociologyblog.com/
http://sociologicalimagination.org/
None
None