Modules

Core Module Information
Module title: Applied Research Design
SCQF level: 11:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10
Module code: SSC11117
Module leader: Mandy Winterton
School School of Applied Sciences
Subject area group: Social Science
Prerequisites

There are no pre-requisites for this module to be added
Description of module content:

The module introduces key principles of designing social research at all stages, from the initial idea to the final dissemination and outputs. You will learn and practise writing research questions, matching them to suitable methods, and aligning outputs accordingly to set goals. Having built a knowledge-base of methodological strategies, you will deploy it to increase competencies in research design via their application. For instance, the outcome of the module – a Research Proposal – will become a grounding framework for your Dissertation Project. Critical considerations of ethical underpinnings in research, alongside self-reflections on your own positionality in the complex social world of interdependencies, will feed into your work on an Ethical Approval Form to obtain ethical clearance for your project. This module forms a bedrock for developing your quantitative and qualitative research skills, on which we focus in complementary modules (Mastering Qualitative Research, Advanced Research Skills). It presents a strong theoretical grounding that underpins applied solutions that you will develop in due course. This methodological triptych will form an essential skillset for your future career in either private business, public administration, third sector, academia, or arts and creative industries. The module progresses students through key theories, epistemologies and methodologies in social and political research. It is aimed at students with the existing, UG-level understanding of methodology, or with some experience of planning and executing research, or at those who need a subject refresher.
Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Develop an advanced understanding of the relationship between theory and methodology, including the epistemological underpinnings of social science research.

LO2: Address complex ethical issues emerging in social research, in line with professional bodies’ guidelines and important research council expectations (e.g. ESRC).

LO3: Show complex understanding of research design principles.

LO4: Develop a robust research design and comprehensive research proposal.
Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2025/6, Trimester 1, In Person,
VIEW FULL DETAILS
Occurrence: 001
Primary mode of delivery: In Person
Location of delivery: SIGHTHILL
Partner:
Member of staff responsible for delivering module: Mandy Winterton
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Face To Face Practical classes and workshops 36 Practical classes and workshops: Our weekly 3hr workshops will be lecturer-facilitated but increasingly student led. In groups or individually the space allows you reflect on your application of methodological principles and skills as per module handbook and lecturer guidance.
Online GROUPIND_STUDY 24 Groupwork (Independent Study) Peer assisted learning is key to this module and essential skills for future careers. Lecturers will facilitate 'research groups' to pursue topics/tasks, for our workshops, mirroring 'real world' tasks but sensitive to individual needs. Resources will be on Moodle. Students are encouraged to add to this, embedding the principle of co-production of knowledge. Effective practices for reflection on co-production will also be developed.
Online Guided independent study 140 Guided independent study: throughout the trimester, you are expected to structure in time to reflect upon the learning you have undertaken in your workshops (including reflective diaries). You should undertake essential reading and also read more widely around the topics you are studying. You should engage in Moodle activities and resources and you will need to ensure that you have sufficient time to prepare and plan for your workshops assessment tasks.
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Project - Written 100 1~2~3~4 Exam Period , WORDS= 4000 words submission of a research design proposal document which follows an industry standard proforma. This will be an empirical study on an issue and design of your own choosing. The premise is that it should be deliverable should you choose to pursue it for your Dissertation project (SSC11123).
Component 1 subtotal: 100
Component 2 subtotal: 0
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
SSC11117 Applied Research Design
 

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