Unit information: Research Methods in 2012/13

Unit name	Research Methods
Unit code	SOCI20015
Credit points	20
Level of study	I/5
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24)
Unit director	Professor. Surridge
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	None
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 aims to introduce students to a wide range of issues of concern to social researchers and will give an overview of some of the different kinds of empirical research methods that are available to social scientists. It aims to give students some initial experience of planning and carrying out research, and to alert them to the problems that arise in the generation, interpretation and evaluation of evidence. The unit covers a range of qualitative methods including observation and interviewing, and quantitative menthods, such as survey research.

Aims:

• To provide an overview of the range of research methods available to sociologists;

• To introduce students to practical research skills as a basis for future learning;

• To provide sufficient knowledge for students to select appropriate research methods for particular projects, especially their dissertation.

Intended Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of the unit, students will be able to:

• Critically discuss the problems involved in the generation, interpretation and evaluation of evidence

• Indicate competence and some experience in the design and implementation of techniques appropriate to small-scale research;

• Demonstrate awareness of the ethical implications of any research project they may undertake.

Teaching Information

2 hours of lectures and 1 hour seminar.

Assessment Information

Formative: 1500 word essay or equivalent

Summative: 2 hour exam

Reading and References

• Bryman, A. (2001) Social Research Methods Oxford University Press.

• Gilbert, N. (ed.) (2001) Researching Social Life London: Sage Publications.

• Seale, C. (ed.) (2004) Researching Society and Culture London: Sage Publications.

• May, T. (2001) Social Research, 3rd Edition, Open University Press.