Module SGIA40120: RESEARCH SKILLS IN THE SOCIAL SCIENCES: DATA COLLECTION

Department: Government and International Affairs

SGIA40120: RESEARCH SKILLS IN THE SOCIAL SCIENCES: DATA COLLECTION

Prerequisites

• None.

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None.

Aims

• To introduce students to the main issues involved in data collection, giving students practical, hand-on training in a range of data collection skills. The module aims to explore the need for reflexivity in research and to explore the interrelationships between data collection and analysis techniques from the outset of collection design. The module is introduced in the first year of the student's research training and is a key component of the ESRC-recognised research training for masters and doctoral level students in Edinburgh.

Content

• The course begins with the exploration of the need for reflexivity in research, and moves to cover key modes of data collection including interviews, focus groups, use of the Internet for gathering data, surveys and questionnaires. Elements of the course dovetail with introductory training in computer analysis of qualitative data. At all times, the emphasis is on the learning of practical skills which students will be able to build on in future research training and practice.

Learning Outcomes

• To enhance skill in reflexive use of key modes of collecting qualitative and quantitative data.
• To enhance knowledge of associated academic discussion and debate
• To heighten awareness of the significance of considering analysis strategies when designing data collection techniques.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• The module combines whole-class presentations and smaller workshop sessions. The whole-class presentations enable students to gain knowledge of and to explore the debates around key research data collection methods and analysis while smaller workshop lessons enable them to gain practical, hands-on experience of utilising those methods.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

There is no written formative assessment in this module. Students are given oral feedback on presentations and practical exercises.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University