Introduction to Quantitative Research Methods

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

1. demonstrate an advanced and integrated understanding of a broad range of quantitative methods applicable to their field;
2. critically analyse the validity of a range of quantitative research methods and their applicability to research problems in their field, including the designs of research studies;
3. apply cognitive, technical and creative skills to use and evaluate a broad range of quantitative research methods in the design of a substantial research-based piece of scholarship;
4. demonstrate skills in the gathering, management, analysis, evaluation and interpretation of a broad range of quantitative data;
5. demonstrate an advanced understanding and use of complex sample surveys, and questionnaire design;
6. demonstrate ability to use SPSS Statistics software for exploratory data analysis (parametric/nonparametric) and hypothesis testing; and
7. present to an interdisciplinary audience a coherent and sustained argument justifying their choice of quantitative research methodologies and methods for a specific project, using high level communication and technical skills and awareness of ethical issues.