AH5RM: Research Methods
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Research Methods
Research Methods
AH5RM NFQ Level: 9 ECTS Credits:
Description:
Marjorie Fitzpatrick, PhD
The aim of the module is to equip students:
 to practise Research Methodology, specifically Documentary.
Qualitative, Quantitative and Evaluation Research Methods.
 to review literature in use in methods of research.
 To construct a Dissertation Proposal.
 To illustrate Sampling Procedures, Research ethics
 To Analyse Research Data.
Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to
1.
recognise the language of research.
2.
identify the most appropriate Research methods for their thesis
3.
practise different Research Methods
4.
discuss Research Design – meaning, purpose and principles
5
5.
write a chapter on Research Methodology in their thesis
6.
evaluate studies in Pastoral Programmes
Pre-requisite Learning
Module Recommendations
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed. You may not enrol on this module if you have not acquired the learning specified in this section
None
Requirements
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed. You may not enrol on this module if you have not acquired the learning specified in this section
None
Indicative Context
 documentary research: theoretical paradigm, analysis of document, practical application.
 qualitative research: theoretical paradigm, types of research, practical application.
 quantitative research: theoretical paradigm, sampling, interviewing and designing of a
 questionnaire practical application. evaluative research: types and practical application

Assessment Breakdown
AH5RM: Research Methods
Assignment 1: Assignment based on either documentary research or quantitative research method
40%
Assignment 2: Assignment based on Focus Group Interview 60%
%
Coursework Breakdown
Type Description Assessment Date Outcome addressed
% of
Total
Workload
Type
Lecture
Independent Learning
Library
Assignment
Full-Time Hours per semester
Description
Lecturing input
Self-directed reading and revision
Self and tutor-directed reading of course material
Researching, structuring information, writing up
Total Workload
Hours
Resources
Essential Book Resources
Bryman, Alan Social Research Methods. 2 nd ed. USA: Oxford Univ. Press, 2004
Denscombe, Martyn The Good Research Guide: Small-scale Social Research Projects. Open University
Press, 2003
Patton, M. Qualitative Research and Evaluation Methods. US: Sage Publications, 2001
Punch, K.F. Developing Effective Research proposals. London: Sage Publications Ltd.,2006
Swetnam,D. Writing your Dissertation. Oxford: How to Books Ltd. London: Sage Publications Ltd. 2004
Reprinted 2008.
University Library Harvard System of Referencing Guide. Anglia Ruskin University, 2007.
Supplementary:
De Vaus, D.A. Surveys in Social Research. 5th Edition. London: Routledge, 2002
Elliot, Jane Using Narrative in Social Research. London: Sage Publications Ltd., 2007
Greasley, P Quantitative Data Analysis Using SPSS. US: McGraw Hill, 2008
Herr, K & Anderson G.L The Action Research Dissertation. US:Sage Publications Ltd., 2005
Morgan, D.
Scott, J.A
Focus Groups as Qualitative Research. London: Sage, 1988
Matter of Record. Oxford: Polity Press, 1990
Spradley, J. Participant Observation. USA: 1988
Wadsworth, Yoland Everyday Evaluation on the Run 2 nd ed. Australia: Allen & Unwin, 1997
Computer programme SPSS
Argyrous, G Statistics for Research with a Guide to SPSS. 2 nd Edition. London: Sage, 2006

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Semester One
Semester Two
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AH5RM: Research Methods
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