Qualitative Social Research Methods 1

This unit of study develops students' ability to conceptualise, appraise, plan and conduct qualitative research. The philosophical background to social research and appropriate theoretical frameworks are presented. Studies that exemplify qualitative research principles and processes, drawn from disciplines including psychology, sociology, gender studies and education are explored. Students will have the opportunity to design and manage a small-scale qualitative project. On completion of this unit of study students will be able to: assess the contribution made by qualitative research methods and the ways in which they may be used in social research; differentiate between common qualitative research approaches and methods; conceptualise the various design elements in qualitative studies including methods, sampling, analysis and presentation.