50164 Research Methods 1

Requisite(s): 50120 Introduction to Social Inquiry OR 50240 Introduction to Social Inquiry OR 50121 Theory and Method OR 50241 Theory and Method
Professional Strand – Social Inquiry – 200 level

This is the core subject for the professional research strand and offers the opportunity for students to develop basic research skills applicable in different disciplinary fields and workplaces. The aim of the subject is to provide a critical introduction to designing and carrying out a small quantitative research project on a contemporary social issue. The subject is structured on a project basis, involving students in hands-on workshops in designing ways of collecting, analysing, and writing about quantitative data. Practice in this subject is on survey research with students working in tutorial groups so they can collect enough data to explore some basic statistical concepts and computer-based cross-tabulation.

The subject also focuses on developing theoretically informed analyses of data, a critical approach to research methodology, and a practical awareness of the often politically and ethically loaded contexts of research. The skills focused on in the subject include questionnaire design, data analysis, and research report writing. The subject forms a sequence with Research Methods 2 for students who wish to develop advanced research, analysis, and writing skills often valued in the workplace.

Typical availability

Autumn semester, City campus