Registry
Module Specifications
Archived Version 2017 - 2018
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Description This module situates quantitative research concepts, methods and tools in the context of practitioner research in Education. It is taught by a combination of on-line sessions using Loop, related reading, intensive programmes, and laboratory sessions. These inputs focus two tasks which structure the module: • A review of existing quantitative research of relevance to a potential research project leading to the formulation of a research question. • Craft a workable project plan for a potential quantitative methods research project. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning Outcomes 1. Identify paradigms of research inquiry consistent with quantitative research 2. Demonstrate advanced proficiency in advanced literature searching/reviewing skills and an ability to critique such literature in terms of theoretical positions and quantitative research evidence 3. Articulate and justify a quantitative research question drawing on the literature and personal professional practice 4. Manage a quantitative research project 5. Identify and address the contextual, ethical and quality issues in the planning and carrying out of a quantitative research project 6. Select and critique appropriate quantitative techniques to address research questions and problems 7. Select / modify /design, pilot and use appropriate quantitative research instruments 8. Critically reflect upon, select and use appropriate analyses for quantitative research data 9. Use SPSS (or equivalent) for data entry, manipulation, analysis and decision making in an educational context 10. Write and submit a research plan 11. Critically reflect on the contribution of quantitative methods to the process of practitioner research | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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 Indicative Content1. Identify, critique and interpret existing quantitative research in a potential research area - advanced literature searching including systematic reviews, meta-analysis 2. Quantitative data analysis: concepts and methods of relevance to practitioner research in education 3. Research Ethics: concepts, requirements and tools 4. Framing and operationalising a quantitative research question 5. Development of hypotheses (Null, research..., assumptions, predictions) 6. Study Variables: Independent, dependent and control; implications for data analysis 7. Develop (and critique existing) quantitative instruments (surveys, tests, scales, checklists) 8. Survey design, platforms and administration 9. Sampling (Probability and non-probability...) 10. Use SPSS (or equivalent) for data entry, preparation and analysis (Coding, entering, cleaning manually) 11. Use SPSS (or equivalent) for data analysis using parametric and non-parametric techniques (Selecting appropriate tests, describing trends, comparing groups, relating variables, correlations) 12. Interpreting and reporting results (significance levels, one/two tailed, effect sizes, magnitude) 13. Validity, reliability, generalisability, threats, error 14. Development of a small scale quantitative research plan | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List
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Other Resources None | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Programme or List of Programmes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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