Undergraduate - UnitATS3003 - Applied behavioural studies

The aims of the unit are to provide students with an overview of current relevant topics of research in behavioural and social sciences as well as of various approaches to research in the field. The unit will equip students with valuable analytical and critical skills which will facilitate transition to either postgraduate research-based degrees or workforce (in positions where social research methods are used).

Content:
The focus of the unit will be on current research conducted in Behavioural studies (BHS) and Sociology (SCY), which are pertinent to current social and political climate locally and globally. The unit will address these issues in a systematic way and students will have the opportunity to apply learning outcomes from other units (e.g., Social Research methods unit). Students will build on their existing quantitative research skills, apply these skills to a group project, and enhance their ability to critically engage with research issues.

Learning and teaching activities:
The teaching approach will be student-centred with a focus on (further) developing research skills and analytical abilities. Current topics in BHS and SCY will be introduced lectures which will be followed by sessions designed as highly interactive, inquiry-based workshops where students will have the opportunity to discuss concepts from the lectures, and then apply them by undertaking group research projects. Under the guidance of the instructors, students will conduct projects of their choice (from the topics introduced) which will familiarise them with all stages of research from framing a research question to disseminating findings. Feedback and reflective exercises will be also part of the learning experience.