Module Specifications..
Current Academic Year 2023 - 2024
Please note that this information is subject to change.
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Description This module introduces students to the knowledge and skills needed to interrogate and apply research methods in the context of literacy education. The module will also support students to develop a critical stance to the interpretation of the literacy research literature and related scholarly writing. Students will be introduced to the fundamental concepts underpinning research methods (e.g. epistemology, ontology) as well as the application of these concepts in varying methodological frameworks (e.g. randomised controlled trials, action research, self-study, design-based research). A particular focus will be placed on developing a research project proposal that meets high ethical and methodological standards. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Learning Outcomes 1. Appreciate the importance of drawing on a variety of research methodologies and traditions to inform theory, practice and policy in literacy education 2. Identify, locate and synthesise a wide variety of research-based sources for literacy education (e.g. journals, handbooks, grey literature) 3. Critically analyse the literature on literacy education, drawing on quality indicators for different forms of research 4. Draw on high quality research methods to interrogate an issue of personal/professional relevance 5. Identify and address ethical considerations relating to literacy research 6. Choose appropriate data analysis procedures for qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
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Indicative Content and Learning Activities
Key concepts for researchStudents will develop an understanding of fundamental concepts necessary for understanding research methodology (e.g. epistemology, ontology, axiology, validity/trustworthiness, reliability, generalisability/transferability, causation) and associated ethical considerations (e.g. beneficence, informed consent).Research ApproachesAn introduction to different overarching methodologies (qualitative/quantitative/mixed), research approaches (e.g. randomised controlled trials, self-study, action research, design-based research, desk-based research) and research tools/instruments (e.g. interviews, questionnaires, think aloud tasks) as applied to literacy education; review quality indicators for different approaches.Data AnalysisThe process of systematically analysing qualitative data using a given framework (e.g. reflexive thematic analysis); basic introduction to descriptive/inferential statistics and their applications; techniques for displaying data.Academic Writing and Research SkillsHow to find and filter high quality literature using library/database tools; conducting a literature review; writing an argument in a scholarly fashion, drawing on appropriate academic conventions. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List
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Other Resources None | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Programme or List of Programmes
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