Unit name | Investigating the Political |
---|---|
Unit code | POLI20015 |
Credit points | 20 |
Level of study | I/5 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24) |
Unit director | Dr. Flint |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
None |
Co-requisites |
None |
School/department | School of Sociology, Politics and International Studies |
Faculty | Faculty of Social Sciences and Law |
This unit aims to introduce students to a wide range of issues of concern to social researchers and will give an overview of some of the different kinds of empirical research methods that are available to social scientists. It aims to give students some initial experience of planning and carrying out research, and to alert them to the problems that arise in the generation, interpretation and evaluation of evidence. The unit covers a range of qualitative methods including observation and interviewing, and quantitative methods, such as survey research.
Aims:
On successful completion of the unit, students will be able to:
The unit will be taught through blended learning methods, including a mix of synchronous and asynchronous teaching activities
Summative assessment 1 (25% weighting): literature review (1500 words) (ILO2)
Summative assessment 2 (75% weighting): report of research findings (3000 words) (ILOs 1-5)
Bryman, A. (2016) Social Research Methods, Oxford: University Press.
Gilbert, N. (ed.) (2016) Researching Social Life, London: Sage Publications.
Seale, C. (ed.) (2017) Researching Society and Culture, London: Sage Publications.
May, T. (2011) Social Research, Maidenhead: Open University Press.