Course summary

This interdisciplinary programme provides a wide-ranging introduction to research practice in the social sciences. It does so by providing training in both the philosophies and methodologies of the social sciences spanning quantitative and qualitive approaches, including the analysis of ‘big data’. This is further developed through opportunities to both work with academics on established ‘real-world’ research projects and to develop original social research. The programme equips students with the knowledge and skills to go on to undertake doctoral research and / or to pursue a career as a professional social researcher. This programme draws upon a wide range of teaching and learning methods. This includes: small group tutorial discussions, seminars, lectures, field and desk based research activities, and project work. Given the core focus on the programme on research training and research design, the modules in Semester 1 focus on the introduction of the role of different theories, philosophies, and methodologies in the pursuit of social research. This spans quantitative and qualitative approaches and the analysis of big data. That includes training in and experience of preparing risk assessments and research ethics applications. In Semester 2, candidates on the programme will be introduced through small group discussions to advanced quantitative and qualitative methods, but also work collaboratively one-to-one with academic staff on ‘live’ research projects to gain an authentic experience of the research process. This experience will allow them to develop and design their own research, primarily through the development and completion of a dissertation project. Key transferable and employment skills will be developed throughout the programme, with an emphasis on written and oral communication skills to engage a wide range of audiences. Critical thinking, application of knowledge, and independent working will be supported across the modules, culminating in the dissertation module. A variety of assessment methods are used across the programme to allow students to demonstrate knowledge and skills developed. This includes through written essays, proposals, and reports; data analysis and interpretation exercises; the critical comparison of different conceptual approaches and methodologies; individual oral presentations; and a dissertation. Assessments are supported across the programme through workshops, informal and formal discussions, and via one-to-one and group meetings. Summative assessments map onto the programme and learning outcomes, capturing a range of cognitive, practical and technical skills using measurable criteria. Both generic and task-specific marking criteria are used to grade work and include evaluation of: critical thinking and analysis; originality and independent thinking; argumentation and the use of appropriate evidence; reflectivity; and the extent to which that is all supported by reading and / or data.