Monash University Handbook 2011 Undergraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Notes

Synopsis

Ethnographic research is the art and science of describing a group or culture. It involves the studying groups and/or individuals as they go about their daily lives. A central premise of this unit is that the ethnographer enters the field with an open mind, but not an empty head. Before engaging with their subjects, the ethnographer begins with a problem, a theory or model, a research design, specific data collection techniques, tools of analysis, and often specific writing style. The unit examines in detail each of these activities and traces their implications for research and the researcher.

Objectives

By the time students complete this unit, they will be able to:

1. ascertain what research methods are appropriate for particular theoretical issues that they wish to explore;
2. understand the uses and limitations of qualitative research;
3. gain expertise on how to establish a qualitative research framework;
4. understand the strengths and limitations of using the computer to analyse qualitative data.

Assessment

Written work: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Harry Ballis

Contact hours

One two-hour workshop per week

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

Sociology

Prerequisites

ATS1367 and ATS1898 or SCY1802 or equivalents

Prohibitions

SCY2816, ATS3597