Unit information: Introduction to Research Methods in 2009/10

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Unit name Introduction to Research Methods
Unit code SPOLM4002
Credit points 15
Level of study M/7
Teaching block(s) Academic Year (weeks 1 - 52)
Unit director Dr. Yamashita
Open unit status Not open
Pre-requisites

None
Co-requisites

None
School/department School of Sociology, Politics and International Studies
Faculty Faculty of Arts, Law and Social Sciences

Description including Unit Aims

This unit introduces students to a range of methodological approaches used by researchers in Contemporary East Asian Studies. The relative strengths and weaknesses of both quantitative and qualitative approaches will be considered. Issues of research design and research methods and methodology will be addressed and students will develop their knowledge and skills in conducting and reviewing research. The concentration on methods appropriate to East Asian Studies will enable students to produce a robust research proposal relevant to their own research interests.

Aims:

" introduce students to a range of methodological approaches used by researchers in Contemporary East Asian Studies;

" consider the relative strengths and weaknesses of both quantitative and qualitative approaches;

" address issues of research design and research methods and methodology;

" develop students knowledge and skills in conducting and reviewing research; equip students to be able to produce a robust research proposal relevant to their own research interests.

Intended Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit the student will:

" understand the range of methodological approaches used by researchers in Contemporary East Asian Studies;

" understand the relative strengths and weaknesses of both quantitative and qualitative approaches;

" understand a range of issues of research design and research methods and methodology;

" have developed their knowledge and skills in conducting and reviewing research; be able to produce a robust research proposal relevant to their own research interests.

Teaching Information

Lectures, seminars, small and large group activities.

Assessment Information

1 x 3,500 -4,000 word assignment reflecting the learning outcomes listed above.

Reading and References

  • Silverman, D. (2004) Qualitative Research: Theory, Method and Practice, London: Sage
  • Seale, C. (2004) Researching Society and Culture, London: Sage
  • Denscombe, M. (2005) The Good Research Guide: For Small Scale Social Research Projects. Open University Press
  • Bestor, T.C, Steinhoff, P.G. and Bestor, V.L. (eds.) (2003) Doing Fieldwork in Japan (2003) Hawaii: University of Hawaii Press
  • Heimer, M and Thogersen, S. (eds.) (2006) Fieldwork Methods in China, Armonk: ME Sharpe.

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