Overview
This short course covers the techniques needed to critically appraise published research, and carry out a piece of original research. Topics include the scientific method applied to human services, literature search techniques, research design, sampling, the organisation of a research project, research ethics, measurement techniques, the analysis of qualitative and quantitative data, the presentation of results, and dissemination.
Learning outcomes
By the end of this short course you should be able to:
- Complete a literature search on a defined topic.
- Prepare a research proposal with an appropriate research design, measurement, sample, and consideration of ethical issues sufficient to be approved by an ethical committee.
- Critically appraise a recent published research paper.
- Analyse a set of qualitative data.
- Analyse a set of quantitative data.
Credits
20 credits
This course can be taken as a stand-alone course if required. To apply, please contact the Programme Administrator: telephone: +44 (0)121 414 3803, email researchmethods@contacts.bham.ac.uk.
Attendance required
Distance learning supplemented by individual tutorials.
Dates
The module is run twice every year.
Session 1 - October to December
Session 2 - January to March
Please contact researchmethods@contacts.bham.ac.uk for exact dates.
Assessment
One 3000-word essay
Academics involved in the delivery of this module
Dr Qulsom Fazil - Lecturer in Disability Studies and Behavioural Science, Module Co-ordinator for the Research Methods Module