Module FOUD02K1: Research in Action: People and Population

Department: Foundation Year (Durham)

FOUD02K1: Research in Action: People and Population

Prerequisites

• None

Corequisites

• None

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None

Aims

• Research in Action: People and Population introduces you to authentic examples of how academic research is conducted and how knowledge is created in practice. Rather than just reading about research in the abstract, you will encounter real examples of scholarship in action - seeing how academics use different methods, sources and ways of thinking to build knowledge. 
• This version of Research in Action focuses on the social sciences, drawing on classic studies from the canon of social science knowledge and more recent statistical data about people and populations. You will explore how academics study society from multiple perspectives and consider contemporary issues through the lens of research evidence.

Content

• An introduction to using primary and secondary resources 
• Authentic examples of primary and secondary resources 
• Modelling critical engagement with research 
• An introduction to statistical methods for data analysis

Learning Outcomes

• Examples of primary and secondary research resources 
• Methods relevant to research using primary and secondary resources 
• The process of engaging in research using primary and secondary resources

• Research disciplinary topics independently 
• Read effectively and accurately 
• Extract and summarise meaning from text 
• Respond critically to academic sources 
• Demonstrate ability to analyse data numerically

• Locate relevant academic sources 
• Express your ideas in writing intelligibly, clearly and in an appropriate academic style 
• Demonstrate critical thinking 
• Demonstrate the use of appropriate sources of evidence

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

• This module is delivered through seminars and workshops. 
• Seminars provide guided access to authentic examples of research using primary and secondary sources. They include a mix of presentations, teacher-led discussion and group activities. Sessions are supported by reference materials, videos, module handbooks and resources on the VLE. Seminars focus on developing your subject knowledge and key transferable skills.
• Workshops give you space to consolidate and apply what you have learned through problem-based exercises. This may include problem-based exercises in small groups or individually and include orientation tasks to help you reflect on your own learning, identify your strengths and areas to develop, and plan your future study.
• As well as timetabled sessions, you are expected to take responsibility for your own learning outside of class. Independent study may include: completing orientation and preparation tasks set by your tutor; undertaking pre-reading before seminars and workshops; answering practice questions and consolidating your understanding; and reading more widely around your subject.
• The module is assessed by portfolio. You will build up a portfolio of work across the module that reflects the conventions and expectations of your chosen degree discipline - so the assessment tasks you will be set, and the way you write and present your work, will be appropriate to your subject area. Assignments such as Essay plan, Essay, Laboratory report, financial impact report, learning log, project blog, presentation may contribute to the portfolio.
• Feedback from each formative and summative assignment is designed to help you improve for future assignments, so it’s important to engage with the feedback you receive.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Throughout the module, you will also complete a range of formative tasks and exercises. These are not formally graded, but they are designed to help you develop your skills and build towards each summative assignment. Engaging actively with formative tasks will support your progress and help you perform well in the assessed work. The exact type of formative assessment you will complete depends on your chosen degree route, but some indicative examples include essay plans, maths progress tests, literature reviews, learning logs, etc.

■ Students who do not attend monitored activities shown under Teaching Methods and Learning Hours, or who fail to complete the summative or formative assessment(s) specified above, may be subject to the Academic Progress procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University.