This module introduces you to diverse methods and design issues that inform social science research within geography and environmental studies. Its purpose is to equip you with some of the skills and mindsets to approach independent research and thus become an active participant in knowledge creation. The module explores what counts as research and how research validity can be assessed from a social science perspective. You will be trained in the design and use of a range of research techniques, including qualitative interviews, extensive questionnaires, group work and ethnography. We also consider the processing and analysis of qualitative data, as well as basic descriptive statistics to analyse quantitative data. Towards the end of the module, we will look in more depth at the principles of research design to help you begin to plan your final year research project.
Lecture 16, Seminar, includes PC sessions 16
1,000 words Report. Assessment Details: Research Design report worth 30%.
3000 words Report. Assessment Details: Research Report worth 70%.
Reassessment Method: Like for like
On successfully completing the module, students will be able to:
Have a sound understanding of different basic approaches to research design, including different research strategies (induction / deduction) and different research design structures (experimental, observational and so on)
Understand the broad differences between quantitative and qualitative approaches to research and the relative merits of each.
Demonstrate skills in the design and use of qualitative interviews and questionnaires.
Evidence skills in simple analysis and presentation of qualitative and quantitative data.
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