Unit name | Informing and Evaluating Policy - Research Methods and Analysis |
---|---|
Unit code | SPOLM1061 |
Credit points | 20 |
Level of study | M/7 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12) |
Unit director | Dr. Yiming Wang |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
None |
Co-requisites |
None |
School/department | School for Policy Studies |
Faculty | Faculty of Social Sciences and Law |
This unit introduces students to the use of quantitative and qualitative techniques and data analysis in a public policy. It demonstrates the application and analysis of quantitative and qualitative techniques to primary and secondary sources. It considers - questionnaire design; sampling techniques, statistical inference and experimental design; interviewing, focus groups, case studies and analysis of documents. The strengths and weakness of different quantitative and qualitative techniques are explored along with issues relating to the use of comparative data. All these topics will be explored via the use of public policy case studies.
The unit aims to:
At the end of this unit students will be able to:
The unit will be delivered through blended learning involving a combination of synchronous and asynchronous sessions, including online lectures, study groups and self-directed exercises.
A written assignment of 4,000 words requiring students to demonstrate a critical understanding of research design, methods selection, data analysis and interpretation pertaining to academic research on public policy (100% and linked to ILO 1-4).