Registry
Module Specifications
Archived Version 2023 - 2024
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Description This module focuses on the rationale for, and application of, qualitative methodology to research problems in Social Science Research. It challenges students to interrogate the epistemological and ontological principles underpinning qualitative research and the implications of adopting a post-positivist world view for one's research. Popular qualitative methods, and the strengths, limitations, and challenges of each particularly when used for policy development ,are addressed. Students are encouraged to examine the applicability of the various options to their work in the context of their existing knowledge and skills and personal/professional commitments, interests and ambitions in education policy and evaluation. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning Outcomes 1. Evaluate one's philosophical stance/world view and the extent to which this 'fits with' the quantitative approach, in general, and the specific methodologies and strategies used in his/her research study. 2. Evaluate and explore a range of qualitative research methods (Document analysis, Discourse analysis, Ethnography, Interviews and Focus Groups, Participant Observation, Secondary Analysis, Thematic Analysis, Narrative Analysis) that are used in Social Science Research and in the development of social policy in a range of contexts. 3. Explain and craft appropriate and informed responses to key issues in qualitative inquiry (Sample size, sampling bias, Hawthorne Effect, Observation Biases, Observer-Expectancy Effect. Selection of appropriate analytical frameworks; interpretation - significance, inferences, cultural bias; trustworthiness (credibility, dependability, transferability, and confirmability). 4. Code and input qualitative data correctly and efficiently 5. Analyse, interpret and report accurately and appropriately the findings of qualitative inquiry. 6. Identify and analyse an example of the use of qualitative research in policy development in context aligned to their own professional experience. 7. Consider and reflect on ethical issues in qualitative research and the application of qualitative approaches in policy development. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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 qualitative research studies in a potential research area - advanced literature searching including systematic reviews, meta-analysis 2. Qualitative data analysis: concepts and methods of relevance to practitioner research in Social Science Research 3. Research Ethics: concepts, requirements and tools 4. Framing and operationalising a qualitative research question 5. Study Variables: implications for data analysis 6. Develop (and critique existing) qualitative instruments 7. Qualitative design, platforms, and administration 8. Sampling 9. Use NVivo (or equivalent) for data entry, preparation and analysis 10. Use NVivo (or equivalent) for data analysis 11. Interpreting and reporting results 12. Trustworthiness (credibility, authenticity, transferability, dependability, and confirmability) 13. Development of a case study of the use of qualitative research in policy development. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List
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Other Resources 49692, 0, Asynchronous online content, | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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