APG4681 - Social research practice - 2018

This unit provides students with a broad understanding of the theory and practice of sociological research, and allows students to develop advanced skills in the research design, data collection and data analysis techniques used in Sociology and cognate disciplines. A variety of social research methods will be explored. This unit also examines a range of theoretical and methodological issues involved in conducting sociological research and considers some of the critiques and limitations of social research techniques. The meaning and significance of both ethics and reflexivity in research practice are also explored. Students completing the unit will also develop important practical skills in conducting and analysing social research.

Upon successful completion of this unit students will have:

1. an appreciation of the history, philosophy and practice of empirical research in Sociology;
2. an understanding of a range of empirical methods and data analysis techniques used in social research;
3. an awareness of some of the key issues, debates and controversies associated with conducting social research, and an appreciation of the complexity of conducting such research;
4. an appreciation of the meaning and role of both ethics and reflexivity in social research;
5. the ability to undertake practical empirical research.

Within semester assessment: 100%

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 288 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. A unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

See also Unit timetable information

Sociology