Research Practices and Methodologies

When is 'research' the appropriate means to address a situational objective? This module looks at circumstances in which the practitioner may need to conduct a formal analysis, or review already conducted research. Frameworks and recognised tools for analysis will be explored.

Learning Outcomes

• Design and develop a research proposal
• Critically analyse and identify different types of research reports
• Identify the role and limitations of research
• Develop technical skills in a range of qualitative research methods

Content Areas

• The Role of Research in Professional Practice
• Research Paradigms
• How to Design a Research Proposal
• Social Policy Development
• Strategy and Planning
• Program Evaluation and Review
• Ethical Dimensions of Research
• Research Method and Application
• The Case Study
• In-depth Interviewing
• Focus Groups
• Participant Observation and Ethnography

Unit Duration and Workload

This unit involves a total of 36 hours of face to face delivery or self-directed study including educator contact in flexible delivery modes, generating a further 120 hours of self-study per unit including research and related study activities, including assessment. This translates as 13 hours per week for the unit.