Qualitative Methods 1

Learning Outcomes

Transferable and Generic Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Write up an evaluation of the methods and methodology employed within a published piece of qualitative research.
• Effectively read and summarise literature on qualitative research methods to construct arguments about their value and application.
• Contribute to discussions within seminars.
• Make informed decisions about choosing and using appropriate qualitative data collection and analysis methods.
• Use CAQDAS to code qualitative data.

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Describe the defining characteristics of key qualitative research methods and have an overview of various types of data collection.
• Understand the principles of Computer Aided Qualitative Data Analysis Software (CAQDAS).
• Evaluate strengths and weaknesses of specific methods.
• Appreciate epistemological and ethical issues involved in qualitative research.

The syllabus for this module will cover an introduction to qualitative methods and a range of qualitative data collection methods. We will consider the defining characteristics of qualitative research and its epistemological underpinnings.

Indicative Syllabus:

1.Course overview and introduction to qualitative methods

2.Qualitative interviewing

3.Focus groups

4.Case Studies

5.Action research

6.Organising and Coding Data

Teaching and learning methods

The module will be delivered using double length seminars that include interactive and practical aspects. These are designed to give students a good introduction to the method/topic. Seminar content will be designed to explore the particular issues that arise in using qualitative methods for Applied Linguistics and English Language Teaching, and will use a range of pedagogic methods, as appropriate. In addition, the module will offer a computer workshop on using Nvivo. Students are also expected to undertake self-directed learning, supported by module materials.

Resources & Reading list

Textbooks

Ritchie, J. and Lewis, J. (eds) (2003). Qualitative Research Practice: A Guide for Social Science Students and Researchers. London: Sage.

Bryman, A (2008). Social Research Methods.

Willig, C (2008). Introducing Qualitative Research in Psychology: Adventures in Theory and Method. Maidenhead: Open University Press.

Denscombe, M (2007). The Good Research Guide: For Small-Scale Social Research Projects. Maidenhead: Open University Press.

Silverman, D (2005). Doing Qualitative Research. Sage.

Mason, J (2002). Qualitative Researching. Sage.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External