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Introduction to Research Skills - ENV00032C

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  • Department: Environment and Geography
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: C
  • Academic year of delivery: 2023-24
    • See module specification for other years: 2024-25

Module summary

This module introduces students to different research skills. It will cover a variety of research methods and quantitative and qualitative data analysis techniques. The knowledge and skills acquired through the module will support students in subsequent stages of their degree and will be applicable to the world of employment. Through teaching and learning activities, and a UK field trip*, students will develop and apply knowledge.

*Field trip feasibility is kept under review. Circumstances can sometimes preclude a field trip.

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Semester 2 2023-24

Module aims

Subject content aims:

Develop students’ understanding of different research skills

Introduce students to a range of research methods and forms of analysis

Provide opportunities to apply acquired knowledge

Academic and employability skills aims:

Develop skills in designing research

Develop skills in data collection, handling and analysis

Develop communication skills

Module learning outcomes

  1. Demonstrate an understanding of, and be able to apply, different approaches to research

  2. Demonstrate an appreciation of the characteristics of different research techniques

  3. Demonstrate knowledge of the strengths and limitations of different research techniques

Indicative assessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 100

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 100

Module feedback

Written feedback will be provided on assessment in accordance with the University’s Policy on Assessment Feedback Turnaround Time. Ongoing verbal feedback will be provided throughout the module.

Indicative reading

Dytham, C. (2011). Choosing and using statistics: A biologist's guide. 3rd Edition. Chichester: Wiley-Blackwell.

Flick, U. (2014). An introduction to qualitative research. 5th Edition. Thousand Oaks: Sage.


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University constantly explores ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary. In some instances it may be appropriate for the University to notify and consult with affected students about module changes in accordance with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.