Postgraduate Module Descriptor

POLM063: Qualitative Methods in Social Research

This module descriptor refers to the 2019/0 academic year.

Module Aims

This module aims to

equip you with the theoretical understanding and practical skills to apply core qualitative methods used across the different disciplines of the social sciences;
familiarise you with key critical perspectives on the application of qualitative methods; and
teach you how to take field notes, write up and present results and satisfy research ethics requirements.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)
This module's assessment will evaluate your achievement of the ILOs listed here - you will see reference to these ILO numbers in the details of the assessment for this module.
On successfully completing the programme you will be able to:
Module-Specific Skills	1. demonstrate in writing a detailed awareness and comprehension of the diversity of evidence utilized in social research using qualitative research strategies; 2. recognize in writing and orally the relevance and significance of different forms of knowledge; 3. recognize and evaluate in writing the diversity of specialised qualitative techniques and approaches involved in collecting research information; 4. critically evaluate in writing and orally the issues involved in the application of qualitative research designs in the context of the social sciences (both in theoretical and practical terms); 5. demonstrate skills in the general principles of research design, data collection and management; 6. show awareness of the specificities of data and data collection strategies when using qualitative research methods;
Discipline-Specific Skills	7. recognize and be able to critically discuss orally and in writing the contested and provisional nature of knowledge and understanding; 8. identify and evaluate orally and in writing comprehensive approaches to problem-solving; 9. systematically synthesize information in writing and orally;
Personal and Key Skills	10. apply complex ideas and concepts to new situations in writing; 11. demonstrate a systematic; and rigorous approach in writing to accuracy, precision and uncertainty; 12. use ICT effectively and appropriately to locate and extract data from a variety of online sources; 13. undertake independent/self-directed learning (including time management) to achieve consistent, proficient and sustained attainment; 14. critically reflect on the process of learning and evaluate personal strengths and weaknesses; 15. develop the ability to study independently and work in groups; 16. develop the ability to deliver presentations to peers, communicate effectively in speech and writing; and 17. write professional reports and to disseminate research findings accordingly

Module Content

Syllabus Plan

Whilst the module’s precise content may vary from year to year, it is envisaged that the syllabus will cover some or all of the following topics:

Introduction

Ethics

Case selection and the comparative method

Process tracing

Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA)

Historicism and Interpretivism

Discourse and content analysis

Interviews

Focus groups

Participatory research

Ethnography

Learning and Teaching

This table provides an overview of how your hours of study for this module are allocated:

Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities	Guided independent study	Placement / study abroad
22	128	0

...and this table provides a more detailed breakdown of the hours allocated to various study activities:

Category	Hours of study time	Description
Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activity	22	11x 2 hour seminars (lectures and student presentations)
Guided independent study	40	Directed readings
Guided independent study	20	Preparation of presentation
Guided independent study	68	Coursework completion - conducting research, analysing data, writing the finished product