SOCI3042

Qualitative research methods

Offer semester
2nd semester

Lecture time
Monday 15:30 – 17:20

Lecture venue
CPD-LG.34

Course description

This course provides an introduction to the purpose and techniques of qualitative research methods. The main topics cover the major steps of a complete research process, from formulating a research question, conceptualizing a problem, to writing a research proposal.

Course learning outcomes

  1. Formulate research questions and design a research.
  2. Collect and analyze qualitative data.
  3. Critically evaluate the assumptions, strengths and weaknesses of social research.
  4. Write a well-organized research report.

Assessment

TasksWeighting
Two short assignments30%
Individual research proposal40%
Project presentation20%
Participation and in class exercise20%

Required reading

Babbie, Earl. 2010. The practice of social research. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth.

Singleton, Royce A. Jr. and Bruce C. Straits. 2010. Approaches to Social Research. New York: Oxford University Press.

Weiss, Robert. 1994. Learning from Strangers: The Art and Method of Qualitative Interview Studies.

Recommended reading

Abbott, Andrew. Methods of Discovery.

Course co-ordinator and teachers