ATS4924 - Honours: Social sciences research methods - 2019

The unit engages students in the diverse range of methodologies and approaches that are drawn upon by researchers across the social sciences. Informed by national and international experiences, students will be exposed to theoretical, applied, qualitative and empirical research studies, skills and critiques to deepen their understanding of the research process. Students will develop practical skills and techniques for identifying and investigating social issues and problems. On completion of this unit, students will have developed a deeper insight into the process of research design and applied practice in the social sciences and will have acquired the skills and confidence to develop and present their own research to a professional academic audience.

Upon successful completion of the unit, students will be able to:

1. identify and explain trends, challenges and benefits of a variety of research methods used in the social sciences;
2. critically evaluate practical, theoretical and ethical issues involved in research in the social sciences;
3. compare methodological approaches to address their own research problem;
4. present their research to a professional academic audience.

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

Anthropology

Criminology

Human geography

Sociology

Politics