Registry
Module Specifications
Archived Version 2017 - 2018
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Description This module focuses on the rationale for, and application of, qualitative methodology to research problems in education. It challenges students to interrogate the epistemological and ontological principles underpinning qualitative research and the implications of adopting an interpretivist world view for one's research. Popular methodologies (ethnography, phenomenology, narrative inquiry...) and strategies (interviews, observations, focus groups, shadowing...) are explored and the strengths, limitations and potential complementarity of each reviewed. Students are encouraged to examine the applicability of various options/combinations of options to their research in the context of their existing knowledge and skills, and personal/professional commitments, interests and ambitions. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Learning Outcomes 1. Distinguish between key approaches to qualitative research, their associated strategies and the nature of the processes of inquiry each assumes. 2. Evaluate one's philosophical stance/world view and the extent to which this 'fits with' the qualitative approach, in general, and the specific methodology and strategies used in his/her research study. 3. Explain and identify appropriate responses to common challenges that qualitative inquiry raises (e.g., working in natural settings - issues of access and ethics etc.; researcher as key instrument - bias and subjectivity etc., inductive data analysis...).... 4. Code, analyse, interpret and/or triangulate data collected from one or more sources and address issues of trustworthiness etc. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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 Common approaches to qualitative research: The strengths, uses and limitations of each...Common research strategies/tools: Interviews - elite, group/focus, informant..; observations - participant, structured..Data sources: Primary, secondary, archival... - challenges and opportunities presenting...Data collection: Skills required; piloting; time factors; dependence on participants; ethics....Data analysis and review: Differing approaches, skills depending on nature of inquiry; challenges and opportunities...Trustworthiness, saturation and generalisability: Implications for policy and practice | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Other Resources 27125, Annotated Reading List, 0, Reading list prepared for the EdD modules, Research Methods 1 and 2, | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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