BEI1067 · Evidence for action

Overview

Evidence for action focuses on the skills and mindsets needed to investigate complex problems using a range of qualitative and quantitative methods. You’ll learn how to conduct interviews, run surveys, engage in fieldwork, and explore datasets, while also learning how to interpret, evaluate, and communicate what you find. This unit emphasises not just collecting information, but thinking critically about it: identifying patterns, surfacing assumptions, recognising bias, and assessing reliability and ethics. You’ll also be introduced to the practicalities of research responsibility, including informed consent, ethical review processes, and data care. Whether you're working with lived experiences, statistical models, or spatial data, you’ll be encouraged to ask: What do I know? How do I know it? And what does it mean for what we do next? Evidence for action helps you build analytical confidence and methodological flexibility, grounding leadership and innovation in diverse forms of knowledge that are both credible and ethically sound.

Offerings

Assessment

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

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

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. demonstrate understanding of diverse research methods for investigating complex challenges
2. collect, analyse, and interpret both qualitative and quantitative data using appropriate techniques
3. assess the quality, reliability, and ethical dimensions of different forms of evidence, including research responsibility and data care practices
4. apply critical thinking to draw meaningful insights from varied evidence sources
5. communicate evidence-based findings clearly and responsibly to support innovation and leadership in real-world contexts.

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. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities. You are expected to complete all pre-class activities prior to your scheduled class, and post-class activities should be completed after your scheduled class. Learning activities may include a combination of teacher directed, peer directed and online engagement activities.

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