SOC07007 2022 Understanding Sociological Research
Full Title
Understanding Sociological Research
Transcript Title
Understanding Sociological Res
Code
SOC07007
Attendance
N/A %
Subject Area
SOC - Sociology
Department
SOCS - Social Sciences
Level
07 - Level 7
Credit
05 - 05 Credits
Duration
Semester
Fee
€
Start Term
2022 - Full Academic Year 2022-23
End Term
9999 - The End of Time
Author(s)
Maire Hanniffy
Programme Membership
SG_HJOIN_H08 202200 Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Sociology and Politics
Description
This module introduces students to the nature of sociological research. Students will begin their studies with an in-depth review of the history of social research, enabling students to examine the approaches that contribute to the construction of sociological theories and knowledge. Through the discussion of social research concepts and approaches, this module will provide students with an understanding of the range and purpose of sociological research that is carried out and how to develop a literature review. Social scientific knowledge in Ireland, in particular, will be explored. Students will examine rationales for conducting social research and the role of social research in society taking into consideration the wider issues that impinge on this. This will also explore the linkages with policy and practice, and consider the concept of the 'hierarchy of evidence'. This module lays the foundation for students to progress on to study research methods and to develop a research project.
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this module the learner will/should be able to;
1.
Describe the history and development of sociological research
2.
Discuss the approaches of qualitative research, quantitative research and mixed methods research.
3.
Establish the relationship between research, and policy and practice
4.
Illustrate the role of social research in Ireland
5.
Design a literature review of relevant social scientific literature
Teaching and Learning Strategies
Methodologies such as discussion of readings, reflection activities and case studies may be utilised in addition to guest contributions. Accessible material will be facilitated as far as possible. Moodle will be used to support learning and store learning resources.
Module Assessment Strategies
The module has two assessed components:
-
Project (60%) LO 1,2,3,4
- Literature Review (40%) LO 5
Formative feedback will be provided on one draft submission of the literature review, in advance of the final submission.
Repeat Assessments
Repeat requirements are dependent on failed component(s).
Indicative Syllabus
LO 1 Describe the history and development of sociological research
- Explore the history of sociological research.
- Examination of the move from commentary on sociological issues to the development of social research methods which arose from the concern with social measurement and the move towards scientific knowledge.
- Trends across the 20th century.
LO 2 Discuss the approaches of qualitative research, quantitative research and mixed methods research
- The main tenets of qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods research.
- The role of theory in research.
- Type of research and research design most suitable for research topics.
- The research cycle.
LO 3 Establish the relationship between research, and policy and practice
- How research findings can be translated into policy and practice.
- Evidence-based and evidence informed policy and practice.
- Ethics and limitations of this approach.
LO 4 Illustrate the role of social research in Ireland
- Explore the work of 'think tanks'; (ESRI, TASC).
- Government research agencies.
- Funders in Ireland (IRC).
LO 5 Design a literature review of relevant social scientific literature
- Strategies to acquire relevant literature.
- Strategies to critically analyse relevant literature.
- Structure and produce a literature review.
Coursework & Assessment Breakdown
Coursework & Continuous Assessment
100 %
Coursework Assessment
| Title | Type | Form | Percent | Week | Learning Outcomes Assessed | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Project | Coursework Assessment | Assessment | 60 % | Week 13 | 1,2,3,4 |
| 2 | Literature Review | Coursework Assessment | Assessment | 40 % | Week 7 | 5 |
Full Time Mode Workload
| Type | Location | Description | Hours | Frequency | Avg Workload |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Workshop / Seminar | Lecture Theatre | Seminar | 2 | Weekly | 2.00 |
| Tutorial | Flat Classroom | Tutorial | 1 | Weekly | 1.00 |
| Independent Learning | Not Specified | Independent Learning | 3 | Weekly | 3.00 |
Total Full Time Average Weekly Learner Contact Time 3.00 Hours
Required & Recommended Book List
Required Reading
2021-03-05 Policy Analysis in Ireland Policy Press
ISBN 9781447350897 ISBN-13 1447350898
2021-03-05 Policy Analysis in Ireland Policy Press
ISBN 9781447350897 ISBN-13 1447350898
Leading Irish academics and policy practitioners present a comprehensive study of policy analysis in Ireland. Contributors investigate the roles of the EU, the public, science, the media and gender expertise in policy analysis. This text examines policy analysis at different levels of government and identifies future challenges for policy analysis.
Recommended Reading
2013-03-13 The Myth of Research-Based Policy and Practice SAGE Publications Limited
ISBN 0857029665 ISBN-13 9780857029669
2013-03-13 The Myth of Research-Based Policy and Practice SAGE Publications Limited
ISBN 0857029665 ISBN-13 9780857029669
Martyn Hammersley's provocative new text interrogates the complex relationship between research, policymaking and practice, against the background of the evidence-based practice movement. Addressing a series of probing questions, this book reflects on the challenge posed by the idea that social research can directly serve policymaking and practice. Key questions explored include: - Is scientific research evidence-based? - What counts as evidence for evidence-based practice? - Is social measurement possible, and is it necessary? - What are the criteria by which qualitative research should be judged? The book also discusses the case for action research, the nature of systematic reviews, proposals for interpretive reviews, and the process of qualitative synthesis. Highly readable and undeniably relevant, this book is a valuable resource for both academics and professionals involved with research.
Required Reading
2015-12-01 Social Research Methods Oxford University Press
ISBN 9780199689453 ISBN-13 0199689458
2015-12-01 Social Research Methods Oxford University Press
ISBN 9780199689453 ISBN-13 0199689458
This best-selling introduction to research methods provides students and researchers with unrivalled coverage of both quantitative and qualitative methods, making it invaluable for anyone embarking on social research. Bridging the gap between theory and practice, Social Research Methods is packed full of engaging examples and practical tips to equip students with the tools and knowledge needed for them to complete their own research projects. In addition to providing practical advice, Bryman deftly explores thenature of social research and the wider issues impinging on it. This book is supported by an Online Resource Centre, which includes:For Students* A researcher's toolkit to take students step by step through the research process* Multiple choice questions to help students test their knowledge and understanding* A guide to using Excel in data analysis to help develop analytical skillsFor Lecturers* A test bank of questions which can be customized to meet teaching needs* PowerPoint slides for each chapter* New seminar outlines including suggested activities and tasks * New exam and course work questions to set in class
Recommended Reading
2005 The SAGE Handbook of Sociology SAGE
ISBN 9780761968214 ISBN-13 0761968210
2005 The SAGE Handbook of Sociology SAGE
ISBN 9780761968214 ISBN-13 0761968210
Providing an authoritative guide to theory and method, the key sub-disciplines and the primary debates in contemporary sociology, this work brings together the leading authors to reflect on the condition of the discipline.
Module Resources
Non ISBN Literary Resources
Alasuutari, P., Bickman, L. & Brannen, J. (ed.) (2008). The SAGE Handbook of Social Research Methods. London: Sage Publications Ltd.
Bulmer, M. (ed.) (1999). Sociological Research Methods An Introduction. London: Macmillan
Crothers, C. (ed.) (2010). Historical Developments and Theoretical Approaches in Sociology - Volume 1. UK: Eolss Publications/UNESCO.
Denzin, N. (2006) Sociological Methods A Sourcebook. New Jersey: Aldine Transaction.
Hammersley, M. (2002). Educational Research, Policymaking and Practice. London: Sage Publications.
Hart, C. (2014). Doing a Literature Review Releasing the Social Science Research Imagination. London: Sage Publications Ltd.
Neale, J. (ed.) (2009). Research Methods for Health and Social Care. New York: Palgrave Macmillan.
Platt, J. (1996). A History of Sociological Research Methods in America 1920-1960.Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
Sarantakos, S. (2012) Social Research. London: Palgrave Macmillan.
Seale, C. (2012). Researching Society and Culture. London: Sage Publications Ltd.
Journal Resources
Evidence and Policy. A Journal of Research, Debate and Practice. ISSN 1744-2656
Sociological Research Online. eISSN: 13607804
URL Resources
Other Resources
Some guest lecturers will contribute to the content of this module.
Additional Information
None.