ATS2723 · Social research methods

Overview

Doing social science research requires us to think conceptually, to systematically plan how we might obtain valid information relevant to the research questions we are asking, and to analyse information. Because social science research draws on people's experiences, its conduct inevitably raises ethical and political questions. In this unit, we will discuss these issues. We will also consider various qualitative and quantitative research strategies and data gathering techniques available to us when we seek to document the social world.

Areas of study: Anthropology Behavioural studies Criminology Sociology

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Within semester assessment: 100%

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Evaluate the strengths, limitations and appropriate applications of quantitative and qualitative approaches to social science research;
2. Identify and explain methods commonly used in quantitative and qualitative research, and use these to design a research proposal;
3. Critically discuss the theoretical, practical and ethical considerations involved in research;
4. Analyse issues related to the design and implementation of social science research, locally and globally.

Workload

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.