Postgraduate Module Descriptor

ERPM002: Scientific Methodologies

This module descriptor refers to the 2020/1 academic year.

Module Aims

This module aims to give participants knowledge of survey, experimental, and quasi-experimental designs, of the nature, collection and analysis of quantitative data in educational research, and of the interrelations of research design and statistical methods. The construction of measuring instruments (e.g. tests, attitude scales, repertory grids, structured observation schedules, etc) and descriptive and inferential statistical analyses are included, together with the use of statistical software packages.

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 Skills1. demonstrate knowledge and understanding of survey and experimental design, including different kinds of sampling strategies;
2. analyse existing archive data sets as well as constructing new data sets;
3. design and know how and when to use questionnaires and other structured approaches to questioning;
4. use various methods of data analysis for theory building including hypothesis testing;
5. demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the underlying principles of the methods used to collect and analyse data;
6. draw up codebooks and manage and construct various datasets;
7. exercise critical evaluation and judgment in all aspects of their work in this module including developing an understanding of political arithmetic;
8. demonstrate critical awareness of ethical issues in quantitative research strategies;
Discipline-Specific Skills9. demonstrate understanding of theoretical principles through the application of the above techniques to complex educational research problems;
10. read and understand research papers and reports that have used quantitative data analysis techniques;
11. tell when statistical conclusions may be suspect because of the inappropriate use of a particular form of analysis, including developing an ability to evaluate their own quantitative research critically in order to improve it;
Personal and Key Skills12. demonstrate skills in self-management - in particular the management of time, tasks and evaluation of own learning;
13. demonstrate personal judgement - particularly in respect of ethically sensitive issues;
14. demonstrate the ability to work independently and collaboratively;
15. demonstrate the ability to communicate and present ideas when writing and speaking and to listen effectively and persuade rationally;
16. demonstrate the ability to problem solve - to think logically, laterally, strategically, analyzing and evaluating; and
17. demonstrate the ability to handle data.