Monash University Handbook 2011 Postgraduate - Unit

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

Synopsis

The unit consists of two modules. Module 1 provides an overview of significant debates about the nature of knowledge and different research approaches in the fields of social science and education, including ethical issues in research. Module 2 introduces quantitative research approaches. It will enable students to develop skills in formulating research questions, using survey and other quantitative research designs, and in collecting, analysing and interpreting quantitative data. Students will be invited to consider validity and reliability issues, as well as the assumptions and knowledge claims in quantitative research.

Objectives

Upon completion of this unit students should be able to:

• understand different research perspectives and methodologies in the field of education and social sciences;
• have an awareness of their ethical responsibilities when undertaking research;
• reflect on the meanings and motivations they bring to the research endeavour;
• perceive the interconnections between research questions, data forums, research methodologies and methods;
• formulate research questions, hypotheses and accompanying study designs;
• understand assumptions and issues of validity and reliability underpinning quantitative research;
• understand the uses of basic descriptive and inferential statistics;
• adopt conventions for reporting statistical findings;
• interpret and critically evaluate reports of quantitative research.

Assessment

Two research papers together comprising 8000 words

Chief examiner(s)

Dr MaryLou Rasmussen (For Module 1); Associate Professor Helen Forgasz (For Module 2)

Contact hours

3 hours per week