Registry
Module Specifications
Archived Version 2017 - 2018
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Description This module focuses on the rationale for, and application of, mixed methods to research problems in education. It challenges students to interrogate the epistemological and ontological principles underpinning quantitative and qualitative research and the implications of adopting a pragmatic approach to one's research. Using taxonomies of mixed methods research designs, students are supported to articulate and defend the nature, extent, timing and weighting of 'mixing' within their PhD or Masters by Research study. By exploring a range of quantitative (quasi-experimental, single case, repeated measures...) and qualitative (case studies, ethnography, grounded theory...) designs, their associated uses and limitations, students are supported to rationalize their research designs to ensure feasibility and 'best-fit' with their research topic, problem and question(s). Particular attention is paid to the practicalities of using a range of methods and tools in one study and the implications for data collection, analysis, triangulation, interpretation, validity/reliability/trustworthiness and generalisability. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Learning Outcomes 1. Classify research designs, methodologies and strategies in accordance with underpinning philosophies and world views. 2. Critically appraise the opportunities and challenges that present for the researcher who decides to mix quantitative and qualitative methodologies in educational research. 3. Adopt and articulate an informed justification for the use of mixed methods in his/her research project. 4. Formulate a transparent, workable, mixed methods research frame appropriate to his/her research based on an established research taxonomy. 5. Craft a workable project plan for his/her research that maps the anticipated actions and decisions to be made at critical junctures of the research (regarding, for example, sampling, instrumentation - choice/design/adaptation, piloting, data collection, recording, review, mixing, analysis 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 Taxonomies of mixed-methods research.Qualitative and quantitative weighting, sequencing and mixing within mixed methods designs...Rationalization of philosophical assumptions, apparent inconsistencies in the context of the paradigm wars....Data collection: concurrent, sequential...Data analysis: 'Quantitization' of qualitative data; distinct and/or mixed reporting; triangulation....Validity, reliability, trustworthiness, generalisability, saturation, limitations.... | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Other Resources 27101, Annotated Reading List, 0, Reading list prepared for the EdD modules, Research Methods 1 and 2., | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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