SOCA6640
10 units
6000 level
Course handbook
Description
Provides students with a sound grounding in the range of research methods relevant to the wider teaching program in Social Change and Development. It also provides an awareness of some of the relevant debates in the area of methodology. Both quantitative and qualitative research methods will be covered. The course will be student-centred, problem-oriented and delivered in a multimedia format.
Availability2024 Course Timetables
Callaghan
- Semester 1 - 2024
- Semester 2 - 2024
Online
- Semester 1 - 2024
- Semester 2 - 2024
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the course students will be able to:
1. Analyse linkages between (a) theories of social change and development and (b) social research practice and methodology.
2. Demonstrate a critical understanding of the range of research techniques employed by social researchers, both qualitative and quantitative.
3. Design research frameworks appropriate to the research tasks arising from other parts of the course.
4. Discuss the ethical implications of research practices and the external environment within which social research is conducted.
Content
Content includes
- examination of the range of research methods relevant to the wider teaching program in Social Change and Development.
- examination of qualitative and quantitative methods as well as mixed methods approaches.
- an introduction to ethical guidelines for research, decolonising and participatory action research approaches, as well as innovative research methods.
Assumed knowledge
Undergraduate degree with major in social science or related area
Assessment items
Online Learning Activity: Weekly contributions to, and participation in, online forum; and 2 day intensive
Tutorial / Laboratory Exercises: Exploring and analysing interview data
Project: Applying qualitative research methods with specific population groups
Proposal / Plan: Designing a mixed methods research project
Presentation: Oral presentation in week 3
Contact hours
Semester 1 - 2024 - Callaghan
Self-Directed Learning-1
- Self-Directed 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1
Seminar-1
- Face to Face On Campus 2 days per week for 1 week(s) starting in week 3
Semester 1 - 2024 - Online
Online Activity-1
- Online 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1
Self-Directed Learning-1
- Self-Directed 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1
Semester 2 - 2024 - Callaghan
Self-Directed Learning-1
- Self-Directed 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1
Seminar-1
- Face to Face On Campus 2 days per week for 1 week(s) starting in week 3
Semester 2 - 2024 - Online
Online Activity-1
- Online 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1
Self-Directed Learning-1
- Self-Directed 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1
Course outline
- SOCA6640 - Semester 2, 2023 (All) (PDF, 232.4 KB)
- SOCA6640 - Semester 1, 2024 (All) (PDF, 235.7 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.