An Introduction to Social Research Methods - CED00160C
- Department: Centre for Lifelong Learning
- Credit value: 10 credits
- Credit level: C
-
Academic year of delivery: 2023-24
- See module specification for other years: 2026-27
Module will run
| Occurrence | Teaching period |
|---|---|
| A | Spring Term 2023-24 |
Module aims
The aims of this module are to provide students with an understanding of the wide variety of research methods that are used in social science research, ranging from case studies to laboratory experiments and from observational studies to randomised control trials. Research methods are the foundation of scientific progress, and through the introduction of such methods, students are able to develop a critical eye regarding research across a variety of social science disciplines. Students will be introduced to methods commonly used in psychology, health and behavioural science, as well as sociology and anthropology. The module will consider the complementary relationship between these methods by giving students hands-on experience of arriving at conclusions by looking at different types of data.
Module learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of key research methods used in the social sciences
- Demonstrate an ability to evaluate research methods and findings in social sciences
- Appreciate the real-world applications of the scientific method
- Be able to write to a good academic standard, and learn the conventions of academic style
- Be able think critically about research methods used in the social sciences
- Be able approach a question from a scientific angle
- Be able to consider the strengths and weaknesses of controlled and uncontrolled testing environment
- Be able to practice being able to seminars and understand the value of exploring ideas in a supportive atmosphere.
Indicative assessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 100.0 |
Special assessment rules
None
Indicative reassessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 100.0 |
Module feedback
The tutor will give regular individual verbal and written feedback throughout the module on work submitted.
The assessment feedback is as per the university’s guidelines with regard to timings.
Indicative reading
- Bhattacherjee, A. (2012). Social science research: principles, methods, and practices.
- Bryman, A. (2015). Social research methods. Oxford university press.