Units

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Sample subject outline - Semester 1 2013

Note: Subject outlines often change before the semester begins. Below is a sample outline.

Rationale

This unit offers the opportunity to study, explore and understand a range of qualitative methodologies and methods. In so doing, the unit exposes students to a knowledge base that may inform post graduate qualitative research. Thus the unit is offered in both semesters to ensure that students undertaking research have timely access to theoretical and practical resources relevant to the development of qualitative research.

The unit also seeks to enhance knowledge and skills in critical assessment of research based articles and books across the health sciences. It encourages students to question and contest knowledge and to constructively defend points of view. It is not expected that a student will be an accomplished researcher by the end of the unit. It is expected that students will be familiar with the theoretical foundations of qualitative research and common methods of data collection and analysis.

Aims

The aim of this unit is to undertake a study of qualitative research methodologies and methods. The emphasis is on key principals, concepts and skills that inform qualitative research across a range of disciplines and contexts.

Objectives

On completion of the unit, it is expected that you will be able to:

1. Demonstrate knowledge of qualitative methodologies and methods;



2. Argue the relationship between qualitative methodologies and method;



3. Apply qualitative methods based on knowledge of appropriate methodology;



4. Identify qualitative research possibilities and appropriate methodology and methods; and



5. Communicate in the language of specific methodologies.

Content

The unit consists of an exploration of the theoretical foundations of qualitative research and the common methods of data collection and data analysis. Specific areas include an exploration of philosophical, sociological and critical research approaches and a review of key strategies and issues related to sampling, data collection, data analysis and the writing of a qualitative research proposal. The emphasis is on key principals and concepts necessary for excellence when undertaking qualitative research.

Specific skill and graduate capabilities you will develop include:

• Knowledge and skills pertinent to a particular discipline or professional area;



• Critical, creative and analytical thinking, and effective problem-solving;



• The capacity for life-long learning; and



• The ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Approaches to Teaching and Learning

This unit is available in internal and external modes. Various learning approaches are adopted to encourage a broad understanding of qualitative research. Learning approaches include lectures, student-led seminars (for internal students), study guides and on-line information. Through learning activities you are encouraged to think critically about a range of theoretical and practice issues that underpin qualitative research. Issues raised are to be considered in relation to individual areas of practical/research interest.

Assessment

There are three assessments to be completed throughout the semester.

Note: Assessment Item 2 differs for Internal and External students.Assessment will be spaced throughout the semester to provide the opportunity for feedback on your learning at key points. You will be provided with feedback on each assessment item as you progress through the unit.

Assessment name: Essay
Description: Length 2000 words. This assignment enables you to explore a methodological approach to qualitative research of your choice: philosophical, sociological or critical.
Relates to objectives: 1, 3, 4 & 5.
Weight: 40%
Internal or external: Both
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Week 6

Assessment name: Presentation (Oral)
Description: INTERNAL STUDENTS: Internal students will lead a seminar presentation having selected a topic from a range of possible options. Topics cover the range of methodological approaches to qualitative research.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2, 3 & 5.
Weight: 20%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: In Tutorials

Assessment name: Essay
Description: EXTERNAL STUDENTS: Length 1000 words. External students are required to address two of the study guide module activities, one focused on methods and one on methodology.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2, 3 & 5.
Weight: 20%
Internal or external: External
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Week 11

Assessment name: Qualitative Research Proposal
Description: Length 2000 words. You are asked to write a qualitative research proposal of your choice.
Relates to objectives: 1-5.
Weight: 40%
Internal or external: Both
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Week 13

Academic Honesty

QUT is committed to maintaining high academic standards to protect the value of its qualifications. To assist you in assuring the academic integrity of your assessment you are encouraged to make use of the support materials and services available to help you consider and check your assessment items. Important information about the university's approach to academic integrity of assessment is on your unit Blackboard site.

A breach of academic integrity is regarded as Student Misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties.

Resource materials

Selected readings are available for you on the Blackboard unit page. Although there is no prescribed text a recommended text is:

Liamputtong, P., & Ezzy, D. (2009). Qualitative research methods. Oxford University Press: Melbourne.

Risk assessment statement

There are no out of the ordinary risks associated with this unit.

Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of semester.

Last modified: 20-Nov-2012