2005 Handbooks

Social research is an essential need in contemporary world. It provides activists with the information and knowledge they need to change the world, just as it informs policy development at all levels. This unit examines how is social research is undertaken. It gives you an opportunity to develop practical skills designing social and organisational research, and in collecting, analysing and presenting data to address essential research questions. The course considers the best research methods to use and the problems, limitations and traps likely to be encountered by inexperienced researchers, and helps you learn how to select the best research techniques to use in different situations. It also considers the ethical issues in social research, and the impact of new information technologies on social research. The emphasis is on practical side of research. A series of active workshops introduces major methodological techniques covering both basic qualitative and quantitative approaches, including interviewing, case studies, group techniques such as focus groups, textual analysis, and participant observation. Research methods useful to community-generated research will also be explored. No knowledge of statistics is required. The unit is suitable for all students in social sciences, humanities, media, creative arts or business and finance. It is particularly useful for those seeking interesting and meaningful employment after graduation, as well as for anyone wanting to go on to do honours and higher research.