Undergraduate - UnitATS4450 - Researching for Social Sciences and Humanities

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Synopsis

The goal of this interdisciplinary research methodology unit is to provide students with a broad introduction to research in the Social Sciences and Humanities. Students will develop the skills required to conduct an independent research project and present their findings in the required form. Topics to be covered include research planning, design and execution, theoretical framework, argumentation, research methods, research ethics, data collection and analysis, and discourse and textual analysis. Discipline specific aspects of research will be covered in 3 weeks (out of the 12 weeks/semester).

Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this unit, students should be able to:

1. Understand the meaning of research and research methodology in the Social Sciences and Humanities;
2. Understand the dynamic relationships between their chosen research topic, the questions they ask and the methods they use;
3. Understand the practical, theoretical and ethical issues surrounding research in the Social Sciences and Humanities;
4. Appreciate different research methodologies and select those relevant or appropriate for their research topic questions;
5. Understand the place of different research methodologies in multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary contexts;
6. Develop the skills to write a thorough and well-structured research proposal in their area of research interest.

Assessment

Statement of problem (2250 words): 25%
Literature review (3600 words): 40%
Methodology (3150 words): 35%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Colleen Lewis

Contact hours

One 2-hour seminar per week

Prerequisites

Enrolment in Bachelor of Arts (Honours)