UNIVERSITY OF KENT
MODULE SPECIFICATION TEMPLATE
SECTION 1: MODULE SPECIFICATIONS
1.
Title of the module
Research Methods for Social Sciences (DI876)
2.
School or partner institution which will be responsible for management of the module
School of Anthropology and Conservation
3.
Start date of the module
Autumn 2013
4.
The number of students expected to take the module
30
5.
Modules to be withdrawn on the introduction of this proposed module and consultation with other
relevant Schools and Faculties regarding the withdrawal
None
6.
The level of the module (e.g. Certificate [C], Intermediate [I], Honours [H] or Postgraduate [M])
Level M (FHEQ Level: 7)
7.
The number of credits and the ECTS value which the module represents
15 (ECTS 7.5)
8.
Which term(s) the module is to be taught in (or other teaching pattern)
If the pattern is not based on terms, please include the weeks (e.g., 6–18).
Autumn term
9.
Prerequisite and co-requisite modules
None
10. The programmes of study to which the module contributes
MSc in Conservation Science and Management
11. The intended subject specific learning outcomes
Approved 12/08/13
UNIVERSITY OF KENT
Specific learning outcomes
11.1 Understand the principles of different research paradigms, including different
strategies and designs and quantitative and qualitative approaches, and the relative
merits of each
11.2 Gain skills in basic methodological issues in social science, including response
biases, triangulation and sampling, and mixed-methods approaches
11.3 Gain skills in a range of specific methods including qualitative interviewing, focus
groups and questionnaires
11.4 Understand the principles of analysis and presentation of qualitative data (through
textual narrative, the use of quotations, coding and contingency tables) and quantitative
data (through statistical analysis)
11.5 Explore how to present analysed data within the framework of a scientific – or social
scientific – report
Relationship to programme learning outcomes
PLO A3 Fundamental social science perspectives on conservation, and the principles of
interdisciplinarity (11.1)
PLO A8 Principles of conservation research design, implementation and analysis,
including problem-led interdisciplinary approaches (11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4, 11.5)
PLO B3 Reflective evaluation of theoretical and methodological frameworks (11.1, 11.5)
PLO C2 Social science methodologies (11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4, 11.5)
PLO D3 Writing reports and funding proposals (11.5)
PLO D8 Independent learning skills required for continuing professional development
(11.1, 11.5)
12. The intended generic learning outcomes
Generic learning outcomes
12.1 An understanding of how social aspects of conservation research projects need to
be designed, analysed and reported
Relationship to programme learning outcomes
PLO A3 Fundamental social science perspectives on conservation, and the principles of
interdisciplinarity (12.1)
PLO A8 Principles of conservation research design, implementation and analysis,
including problem-led interdisciplinary approaches (12.1)
PLO D8 Independent learning skills required for continuing professional development
(12.1)
Approved 12/08/13
UNIVERSITY OF KENT
13. A synopsis of the curriculum
The module will begin with a broad overview of social science approaches to research,
highlighting contrasts with standard natural science techniques and focusing on the
qualitative-quantitative divide. Subsequent sessions will introduce individual methods
such as qualitative interviewing, questionnaire surveys and focus groups. Sessions will
also be devoted to processing and analysis of qualitative and quantitative data. Towards
the end of the module, we will examine the principles of integrated research design and
mixed-methods approaches.
14. Indicative Reading List
Bernard R (2005), Research Methods in Anthropology. 4th Edition. Altamira Press.
De Vaus DA (2002), Surveys in social research. 5th Edition. Routledge.
Newing H, Eagle C, Puri R and Watson C (2009), Conducting research in conservation:
social science methods and practice. Taylor and Francis.
15. Learning and Teaching Methods, including the nature and number of contact hours and the total
study hours which will be expected of students, and how these relate to achievement of the intended
module learning outcomes
Learning and teaching methods will consist of weekly workshops consisting of
presentations interspersed with discussion sessions and practical group exercises
practising individual methods and analysis techniques. As a 15 credit module, total
study hours will be approximately 150, of which contact time will be 20 hours. For each
workshop, students will be set readings and encouraged to review their class notes and
prepare questions for discussion in the following session. They will also be set practical
exercises – some to be carried out individually and others in groups - involving practice
in using each method. Learning outcome achievement will be monitored informally by
observation of class participation, and formally through one exam and one written
portfolio on practical data collection and analysis.
Workshops: 11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4, 11.5, 12.1
Practical exercises outside workshop sessions: 11.2, 11.3
16. Assessment methods and how these relate to testing achievement of the intended module learning
outcomes
Approved 12/08/13
UNIVERSITY OF KENT
The formal assessment of this module will be through one written 2 hour examination
(40%) and one written report presenting the results of an empirical data collection
exercise (60%: c. 2500 words). The examination will test knowledge and understanding
of different research paradigms and methods, with a particular emphasis on research
design and the qualitative – quantitative distinction (11.1, 11.2, 11.4, 12.1). The written
report will test practical skills in the use and reporting of specific methods and analysis
techniques (11.3, 11.4, 11.5, 12.1).
17. Implications for learning resources, including staff, library, IT and space
None
18. The School/Collaborative Partner (delete as applicable) recognises and has embedded the
expectations of current disability equality legislation, and supports students with a declared disability
or special educational need in its teaching. Within this module we will make reasonable adjustments
wherever necessary, including additional or substitute materials, teaching modes or assessment
methods for students who have declared and discussed their learning support needs. Arrangements
for students with declared disabilities will be made on an individual basis, in consultation with the
University’s/Collaborative Partner’s (delete as applicable) disability/dyslexia support service, and
specialist support will be provided where needed.
As far as can be reasonably anticipated, the curriculum, learning and teaching methods and
forms of assessment do not present any non-justifiable disadvantage to students with
disabilities.
19. Campus(es) where module will be delivered:
Canterbury
If the module is part of a programme in a Partner College or Validated Institution, please complete
the following:
20. Partner College/Validated Institution:
21. University School responsible for the programme:
Approved 12/08/13
UNIVERSITY OF KENT
SECTION 2: MODULE IS PART OF A PROGRAMME OF STUDY IN A UNIVERSITY SCHOOL
Statement by the School Director of Learning and Teaching/School Director of Graduate Studies
(as appropriate): "I confirm I have been consulted on the above module proposal and have given advice
on the correct procedures and required content of module proposals"
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Director of Learning and Teaching/Director of
Graduate Studies (delete as applicable)
Date
…………………………………………………
Print Name
Statement by the Head of School: "I confirm that the School has approved the introduction of the
module and, where the module is proposed by School staff, will be responsible for its resourcing"
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Head of School
Date
…………………………………………………….
Print Name
SECTION 3: MODULE IS PART OF A PROGRAMME IN A PARTNER COLLEGE OR VALIDATED
INSTITUTION
(Where the module is proposed by a Partner College/Validated Institution)
Statement by the Nominated Officer of the College/Validated Institution (delete as applicable): "I
confirm that the College/Validated Institution (delete as applicable) has approved the introduction of the
module and will be responsible for its resourcing"
.................................................................
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Nominated Responsible Officer of Partner
College/Validated Institution
Date
………………………………………………….
Print Name
…………………………………………………..
Post
………………………………………….
Partner College/Validated Institution
Module Specification Template
Last updated February 2013
Approved 12/08/13