Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit introduces students to the basic concepts necessary for the research process in the social sciences. Topics include a range of methods used in social research, the strengths and weaknesses of each method, the situations in which each method can be appropriately applied, research design and ethics, data collection techniques, and reporting of research. Verbal skills of interviewing and reporting are assessed as well as written skills. Spreadsheeting is introduced using the university's software package.

Objectives

On successful completion of this unit students should have:

1. Acquired familiarity, both theoretical and practical, with the basic stages of a research project.

2. The ability to describe a range of methods used in conducting social research and be able to assess the strengths and weaknesses of each method.

3. Improved their proficiency in oral and written reporting skills.

4. Developed their capacity for independent achievement of goals.

5. Extended their ability to critically evaluate research reported in current literature.

6. Prepared themselves for undertaking postgraduate research.

Assessment

Written work: 90% (4000 words)
Oral report: 10%

Contact hours

3 hours per week

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

Sociology
Psychological studies

Prerequisites

24 points at first year level

Prohibitions

COG1112, GSC1112, BHS2110, BHS3110