Research Methods in Language Education 1: Researching Questions - EDU00119M
Module summary
This is the first of two Research Methods in Language Education modules. It is a compulsory module to prepare students to undertake an MA dissertation research project in the Summer term.
Module will run
| Occurrence | Teaching period |
|---|---|
| A | Autumn Term 2022-23 |
Module aims
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To prepare students to consider the contexts for research in Language Education;
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To develop knowledge and understanding of the essentials of research in the field of Language Education, including formulating research questions, literature searching and reviewing, and quantitative and qualitative research design;
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To familiarise students with various research methods and quantitative and qualitative analysis techniques to conduct independent research on language educational topics.
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To familiarise students with how to read research literature and reports in the field of Language Education with critical analysis, understanding, and insight to assess the strengths and weaknesses of such research.
Module learning outcomes
By the end of this module, students will be able to:
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develop a good knowledge and understanding of educational research processes, including research questions, designs, methods, and quantitative and qualitative analysis techniques;
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be familiar with commonly-used instruments in educational research, including questionnaires, interview schedules, and observation schedules;
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be able to evaluate the appropriateness of methods and analytical techniques for different research topics and questions;
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critically describe the strengths and limitations of different data collection methods and analysis techniques;
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develop a clear understanding of the characteristics of scientifically rigorous educational research.
Academic and graduate skills
At the end of the module, students will have learned how to be able to:
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critically evaluate academic arguments as presented in the research literature and reports using a range of methods and techniques;
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manage a range of sources and critically assess the reliability and validity in informing and supporting academic argumentation.
Module content
Students will be provided with a weekly breakdown of the module content in the module VLE and class in Week 1.
Indicative assessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Online Exam -less than 24hrs (Centrally scheduled) | 100 |
Special assessment rules
None
Indicative reassessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Online Exam -less than 24hrs (Centrally scheduled) | 100 |
Module feedback
Feedback on the mock exam is provided in Week 10 to help prepare for the summative exam in Week 1 of the Spring term.
Test scores will be provided for the summative exam.
Indicative reading
Bryman, A. (2015). Social research methods. Oxford: Oxford University Press. 5th Edition
Cohen, L., Manion, L., & Morisson, K. (2007). Research methods in Education. Abingdon, Oxon: Routledge. [Available as an e-book]
Cottrell, S. (2017). Critical thinking skills. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan.
De Brun, C. (2013). Searching skills toolkit: Finding the evidence. Oxford: BMJ Books.
Dörnyei, Z. (2007). Research methods in applied linguistics. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Wray, A. (2012). Projects in linguistics: A practical guide to researching language. London: Hodder Arnold. [Available as an e-book]