Unit information: Advanced Qualitative Research in 2011/12

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Unit name Advanced Qualitative Research
Unit code SOCIM3132
Credit points 20
Level of study M/7
Teaching block(s) Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24)
Unit director Dr. Devadason
Open unit status Not open
Pre-requisites

Qualitative Social Research or equivalent
Co-requisites

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

Description including Unit Aims

This unit builds on the unit Qualitative Social Research, providing instruction in further techniques of qualitative data collection as commonly employed by sociologists. The unit includes a focus on how to analyse this data as well as training in techniques including the analysis of life histories; narratives; case studies; discourse analysis; visual research; internet based research; integrating research methods; comparative/cross-national research; internet based research; integrating research methods; coding and analysing using NVivo; and practical sessions on advanced Word for dissertations.

Aims:

  • To make students aware of the wide variety of qualitative social research methods and how to select the techniques most appropriate to their task
  • To aid students in understanding how to formu late focused research questions and how to trans late these into manageable projects

Intended Learning Outcomes

  • Capacity to design qualitative research on substantive area of interest to social science, using appropriate methodological tools
  • Ability to evaluate the research practice, data and interpretations of others
  • Capacity to work as part of a team, as well as individually

Teaching Information

The main method of teach ing will be weekly face-to-face seminar sessions which will involve a combination of lectures, audio-visual material, seminars and project work.

Assessment Information

The assessment will relate directly to one of more of the learning outcomes and will be an assignment of 4000 words (or equivalent) showing an in-depth understanding and integration of key aspects of the unit

Reading and References

  • Blaxter, L., Hughes, C. and M. Tight, 2001 How To Research, 2nd ed., Open University Press
  • Bryman, A. 2001 Social Research Methods, Oxford University Press
  • Denscombe, M. 1998 The Good Research Guide: For Small-Scale Research Projects Open University Press.
  • Devereux, S and Hoddinott, J. (eds) 1992 Fieldwork in Developing Countries, Harvester Wheatsheaf
  • Ritchie, J & J. Lewis, 2003 Qualitative Research Practice, London, Sage

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