RESM6002 Research Design and Practice

Module Overview

Research Design and Practice involves training and preliminary work for researching in social science. This module deals with the practical challenges of designing and conducting research such as defining research questions, identifying appropriate methods, research management and problem solving, writing up research, ethical issues, and thinking reflexively about research.

Aims and Objectives

Module Aims

To provide both training and preliminary work for researching in the social sciences; to introduce students to the process of research design in the social sciences.

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

Define and formulate research problems and questions
Design a research project recognising philosophical, methodological and practical demands
Identify key principles of research ethics

Syllabus

This module deals with the practical challenges of research. It will equip students to design and undertake a research project. Indicative content includes defining research questions, identifying appropriate methods, research management and problem solving, writing up research, ethical issues, and thinking reflexively about research.

Special Features

This module is one of the ESRC DTP’s seven research methods modules. The modules are taught by leading experts from across Academic Units and Faculties. This co-ordinated research methods training programme brings together students from across the faculties of Human and Social Sciences, Humanities and Health Sciences.

Learning and Teaching

Teaching and learning methods

• Multi-disciplinary lectures • Subject specific seminars • Independent study

Type	Hours
Teaching	20
Independent Study	80
Total study time	100

Resources & Reading list

Peter Burnham et al (2008). Research Methods in Politics.

Jonathon Moses and Torbjorn Knutsen (2007). Ways of Knowing.

Keith Punch (2005). Introduction to Social Research.

Norman Blaikie (2000). Designing Social Research.

John Hughes and Wes Sharrok (2008). Theory and Methods in Sociology.

Assessment

Assessment Strategy

The module will be assessed by one 2500-3000 word coursework assignment. Students will be required to produce a research proposal.

Summative

Method	Percentage contribution
Research proposal (3000 words)	100%

Repeat

Method	Percentage contribution
Research proposal	100%

Referral

Method	Percentage contribution
Coursework assignment(s)	100%

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External