Postgraduate Module Descriptor

POLM140: Qualitative Methods in Social Research

This module descriptor refers to the 2021/2 academic year.

Module Aims

The aims of this module are to introduce you with core issues in qualitative research in social sciences; to enable you to gain a critical understanding of the opportunities, challenges and prospects for qualitative research in social sciences; and to provide you with the tools for designing a sound research design for qualitative inquiry in social research.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

This module's assessment will evaluate your achievement of the ILOs listed here - you will see reference to these ILO numbers in the details of the assessment for this module.
On successfully completing the programme you will be able to:
Module-Specific Skills1. demonstrate comprehensive awareness and understanding of the core issues in conducting qualitative research in social sciences;
2. appraise empirical application of research designs in qualitative research in social sciences
3. appraise empirical application of research designs in qualitative research in social sciences
Discipline-Specific Skills4. demonstrate advanced skills in the core principles of research design, data collection and analysis;
5. recognize and critically discuss the contested and provisional nature of scientific knowledge;
6. assess the relevance, significance and implications of the logics of inquiry in social science research;
Personal and Key Skills7. discuss, evaluate and synthesise complex arguments effectively;
8. engage constructively in complex discussions and debates;
9. develop advanced autonomous learning skills, notably self-direction and time management.