Becoming a Social Researcher - SAPX4100

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Module delivery information

Location Term Level1 Credits (ECTS)2 Current Convenor3 2026 to 2027
Canterbury
Extra Curricular 4 20 (10) Kate Bradley checkmark-circle

Overview

Being a social researcher is about more than just conducting research or analysing data. It requires understanding the complexities of human behaviour and social systems, and a willingness to engage with diverse perspectives and experiences. So, your course will begin with an introduction to the reasons for doing social research and the methods social scientists use for moving knowledge forward. You'll explore how social scientists recognise that 'truth' is dependent on context, is in constant flux, and is bound up with power. This is not to say that we live in a 'post-truth’ world, but that you’ll learn to interrogate how knowledge and truth are created and how societies and social structures can play a role in this. At the end, you will have the building blocks from which you can understand the theories and concepts that are the academic underpinnings of your degree.

Details

Contact hours

Class 8

Workshop 5

Independent Study 7

Assessment Preparation 50 

'On-the-job' training hours (work-based experience) -130

Total hours:- 200 hours

Availability

Available ONLY for BA (Hons) Applied Social Research (Social Researcher) as a compulsory module

Method of assessment

Main Assessment methods:-

a) Written -Extended Writing -Reflective journal on policy context and research -1,500 words -80% Weighting (covers module learning outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4 )-This Assessment is Pass Compulsory.

b) Test- Multiple choice question (15 questions)- 20% weighting (covers module learning outcomes 1, 3, 4)

Reassessment methods:-Like-for-like

Indicative reading

The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in an accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices.

The most up-to-date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages.

Learning outcomes

On successfully completing the module, students will be able to: 
1)Discuss the UK social and policy context and how this will inform and impact their research. (Maps to K1 of the occupational standard).
2)Describe the role social research plays in providing evidence for social or policy questions. (Maps to K2 of the occupational standard).
3)Identify the advantages and limitations of qualitative and quantitative research methods and discuss how to apply these in research design. (Maps to K3 of the occupational standard).
4)Select and bring together evidence from a range of sources to inform decisions. (Maps to S11 of the occupational standard).

Notes

  1. Credit level 4. Certificate level module usually taken in the first stage of an undergraduate degree.
  2. ECTS credits are recognised throughout the EU and allow you to transfer credit easily from one university to another.
  3. The named convenor is the convenor for the current academic session.
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