CRIM4010
20 units
4000 level
Course handbook
Description
Through this course, students will gain an understanding of how research problems are conceived and acted upon in criminology. The course contextualises criminological research and theory within key debates on criminal justice. Students will consider the philosophical underpinnings of criminological research, as well as ethical and political components of research in response to vital questions, such as: 'what is criminological knowledge?', 'how do we know what we know about crime?’, and what are the causes and range of approaches to responding to criminal justice issues? The core concept of the course is 'epistemology’ – the kind of knowledge that researchers are producing. A central learning objective is for students to gain insight into how epistemology – the theory of knowledge, especially with regard to its methods, validity and scope – features in their own research.
Availability2024 Course Timetables
Newcastle City Precinct
- Semester 1 - 2024
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the course students will be able to:
1. Explain in writing how knowledge production in criminology is influenced by, and influences, philosophical and political perspectives and practices on criminal justice issues.
2. Select and synthesise key intellectual issues and debates in criminology to justify the scope and method for a research study.
3. Critically evaluate the quality of research conducted in criminology.
4. Identify the criteria used to evaluate the quality of research conducted in criminology.
5. Present and defend an epistemological viewpoint in relation to a criminal justice research project.
Content
CRIM4010 centres on the question – 'what is criminological knowledge'?Students will be introduced to philosophical and historical discussions related to the question of criminological knowledge, and how we know what we know.Topics covered may include:
- epistemology
- what is truth?
- epistemological positions: positivism, phenomenology, hermeneutics, social constructivism, interpretivism, empiricism
- theory to practice
- research as action
- reflexivity, positionality, subjectivity and bias
Assumed knowledge
A major or degree in criminology with a minimum of credit grade average.
Assessment items
Written Assignment: Essay
Written Assignment: Reflexive Journal
Presentation: Presentation
Contact hours
Semester 1 - 2024 - Newcastle City Precinct
Seminar-1
- Face to Face On Campus 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 6 week(s) starting in week 1
- Blended Face to Face on campus/online.
Course outline
- CRIM4010 - Semester 1, 2023 (Ncle) (PDF, 284.4 KB)
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.