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Description
In the first term of this module you will follow an online research methods course through which you will learn how to conceptualize and write a coherent research proposal, formulating relevant research questions on a topic of your choice within your chosen subject specialism, on the basis of relevant literature and/or observations of practice, and design systematic data collection and analysis strategies in order to help you answer your questions. In term two and three you will implement your research proposal, gathering and analysing data and presenting your conclusions systematically. The report will enhance your ability to read research in your chosen field, to devise investigative strategies and to develop new knowledge in your field and to communicate this through scholarly writing and argument.听
You will be assessed on the basis of a portfolio comprised of a proposal, evidence of having peer-reviewed a proposal, an ethics approval application and a report. The portfolio will be assessed holistically. Students will write a 1,500-word proposal + 8,000-word report.听
About this module:听 In this module you work towards completion of a dissertation or report, based on a piece of original research. The module spans one year.听 You will be supported in preparing a proposal for your dissertation/report. Once you have completed your proposal and research ethics form you will work closely with your dissertation/ report supervisor to implement the proposal, start conducting the research听 and complete the dissertation or report听
Content: To support you with your research this module explores the principles of research and outlines different methodologies and methods of research.听听
Teaching delivery:听 In term 1 this module is taught in weekly online group sessions (45 minutes).听 Additional one-on one-tutorial will also be offered to discuss the dissertation/report. In term 2 there are three online sessions as well as ongoing support from your dissertation/report tutor.听 In term 3 two online sessions are provided as well as as ongoing support from your dissertation/report tutor.听听听
Indicative Topics: Topics such as the following will be covered. Different approaches to research, practical and ethical considerations, formulating your research question(s), reading research critically, writing your literature review, methods of data collection (including surveys, interviews, focus groups, action research, interventions, case studies, documentary research and systematic reviews), preparing your proposal, completing the research ethics form, analysing data and writing the dissertation.听
Module aims: In line with core IOE MA programme aims, this module aims to:听
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develop in students an ability to carry out a sustained and systematic piece of academic or professional enquiry in their chosen area of research interest;听
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develop students鈥� ability to critically assess the benefits, limitations, values and impact of research in their field/ discipline;听听
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increase students鈥� knowledge and understanding of different approaches to education research, and to develop the capacity to apply this appropriately to a piece of small-scale enquiry;听
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enable participants to reflect critically on the benefits and limitations of their own and others鈥� research;听听
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enable participants to make a contribution to the overall body of knowledge and/or policy in their chosen discipline;听听
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improve students' practice through their engagement in an enquiry of their own.听
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Recommended readings:听听听
Bell, J. (2010) Doing your research project : a guide for first-time researchers in education, health and social science (5th ed) Maidenhead: McGraw-Hill Open University Press.听听听
Scott, D., & Morrison, M. (2007). Key ideas in educational research London: Continuum.听
Module deliveries for 2024/25 academic year
Last updated
This module description was last updated on 19th August 2024.
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