Qualitative methods module (BU52052)

You will develop your capacity to be a qualitative researcher. You will do this by:

•  gaining an appreciation of the nature and benefits of qualitative research methods
• acquiring awareness of multiple qualitative research approaches, data collection and analysis methods
• reflecting on the nature and appropriateness of different qualitative research approaches and data collection and analysis methods. You will reflect on this in regards to your proposed research
• developing an in-depth plan for your proposed research. This will involve a specific qualitative research approach, data collection and data analysis method

What you will learn

You will learn an awareness of a multiple of qualitative research approaches and methodologies. These will guide you when you develop a plan for data collection and analysis methods. You will be able to develop this in a way that is appropriate for your proposed research. Topics will include:

•  Benefits of qualitative research
• The researcher and reflexivity
• Qualitative research approaches and philosophy
• Qualitative research data collection methods
• Qualitative research data analysis methods
• Careers in qualitative research

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• understand the nature of qualitative research
• be aware of multiple qualitative research approaches, data collection and analysis methods
• show in-depth knowledge of a specific qualitative research approach, data collection and data analysis method appropriate for proposed research
• appreciate the value of qualitative research methods
• engage in reflection on the choices qualitative researchers make. This will be in terms of qualitative research approach
• appreciate diverse qualitative research data collection and analysis methods
• reflect on the appropriateness of different qualitative approaches for proposed research. You will also be able to reflect on the appropriateness of data collection and analysis methods as well
• reflect on potential qualitative research approaches and methods
• consider the suitability of different qualitative research methods for proposed research
• create a plan for qualitative research. This will cover chosen approach, and data collection and analysis methods

Assignments / assessment

The coursework comprises the following:

• Qualitative research approach reflection (30%)
• Qualitative Data Analysis and Collection Plan (70%)

This module does not have a final exam.

Teaching methods / timetable

Teaching will help you to explore your chosen research approach and data collection and analysis methods. This will involve:

• short lectures
• workshop exercises
• group discussion
• online learning materials and reading recommendations