Qualitative Research Methods in Psychology – Part 1 (32997)

This module will introduce students to qualitative research methods.

It will cover all aspects of qualitative research methods, namely: Generating research questions, common research approaches (e.g. case studies, grounded theory), development of research instruments (e.g. selection of appropriate interview questions), data collection (e.g. interviews, observations, journals), issues of trustworthiness, basic data analysis using qualitative methods (e.g. thematic analysis and grounded theory using computer software such as Nvivo), and writing research reports. You will be made aware of the importance of conducting research in line with ethical principles, such as the BPS Code of Ethics.

Research examples will focus on developmental and/or cognitive psychology across the lifespan.

Outcome

By the end of the module you should be able to:

Use basic data analysis techniques to perform qualitative data analysis, and be able to interpret findings
Evaluate different research designs used in qualitative research
Evaluate different data collection methods used in qualitative research
Write research reports in line with qualitative research conventions
Design studies that adhere to established ethical principles