Registry

Module Specifications

Archived Version 2011 - 2012

Module Title	Research Methods and Project
Module Code	SOC6B
School	Oscail
Online Module Resources
Module Co-ordinator	Mr James Brunton	Office Number	D102
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	15
Pre-requisite	SOC1
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

Description

This module provides an overview of quantitative and qualitative methods used in sociological research. Students complete a dissertation based on an independent piece of research.

Learning Outcomes

1. Critically evaluate statistical principles that underpin sociological research design
2. Critically differentiate between different statistical procedures both parametric and non-parametric
3. Critically differentiate between different qualitative research methods
4. Employ appropriate research methods and design strategies for the collection and analysis of data
5. Demonstrate the use of SPSS to enter, analyse and interpret data
6. Critically evaluate relevant theoretical concepts and empirical research in written format
7. Report research project rationale, findings, conclusions and overall implications in written format, and to a professional standard
8. Apply the relevant guideline and requirements for ethical conduct in carrying out sociological research

Workload	Full-time hours per semester
*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Tutorial	24	No Description
Moodle discussion	30	No Description
Independent learning	315	No Description
Lecturer-supervised learning (contact)	6	No Description
Total Workload: 375

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Block 1: Developing the Research Proposal.
Unit 1: Introduction to the Research Process.

Unit 2: Using Information Technology in the Research Process.
Unit 3: Research Ethics.

Unit 4: Generating a Research Topic.
Unit 5: Reviewing the Literature.

Unit 6: Research Paradigms and Methodologies.
Unit 7: Issues in Data Collection.

Unit 8: Data Management.
Unit 9: Preparing a Project Plan and Research Proposal.

Unit 10: Writing up the Dissertation.
Unit 11: Word Processing your Dissertation: Tips and Tricks.

Unit 12: Presenting your Findings - Slide Presentations and Posters.
Block 2: Doing Research - Data Collection and Analysis.

Unit 13: Quantitative Data Collection Methods.
Unit 14: Describing Data.

Unit 15: Exploring and Representing Data.
Unit 16: Inference and Hypothesis Testing.

Unit 17: Comparing Independent Samples.
Unit 18: Comparing Related Samples.

Unit 19: Analysing Nominal Data.
Unit 20: Correlation.

Unit 21: Factor Analysis.
Unit 22: Analysis of Variance.

Unit 23: Regression.
Unit 24: Qualitative Data Collection Methods.

Unit 25: Qualitative Data Analysis.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment	100%	Examination Weight	0%

Course Work Breakdown
Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Assignment	This module involves assessments focusing on both research methods and the process of preparing for, and carrying out, an independent piece of research. Students also produce a dissertation based on an original and independent research project.	100%	n/a

Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; 1 = A resit is available for all components of the module 2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module 3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable

Indicative Reading List

Bryman, A: 2008, Social research methods, Third,

Other Resources

None

Programme or List of Programmes

Diploma/BA in Humanities

BASM

BA Single Module

Timetable this semester: Timetable for SOC6B

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