There are no pre-requisites for this module to be added

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 practice writing the objectives, 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 Methods, Understanding and Executing Quantitative Research). It presents 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 research 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.

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Have an advanced understanding of the complex links between theory and methodology, including benefits and limitations of qualitative and quantitative research.

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

LO3: Be able to show complex understanding of research design principles for all stages of work (preparation, execution, dissemination), incl. ability to thoughtfully align aims and objectives to methodologies and theoretical underpinnings, matching them to suitable methods of data generation and analysis, and planning appropriate outputs.

LO4: Design your own research project, culminating in a comprehensive research proposal.