Module Information
Course Delivery
Assessment
| Assessment Type | Assessment length / details | Proportion |
|---|---|---|
| Semester Assessment | Research Proposal A research proposal concerning a criminological subject 3000 Words | 50% |
| Semester Assessment | Coursework assessment Analysis of an empirical criminological article 2000 Words | 50% |
| Supplementary Assessment | Coursework assessment 2000 Words | 50% |
| Supplementary Assessment | Research Proposal 3000 Words | 50% |
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module students should be able to:
Demonstrate an understanding of key issues in the philosophy of social science and their relevance to their research topics;
Demonstrate an understanding of ethical issues which a researcher in the field of Criminology, may encounter
Demonstrate an appreciation of a range of research methods relevant to criminologists and in doing so, understand how methodological decisions are made
Understand the process of, and show an ability to, formulate an appropriate research question
Develop the skills required to design and write a research proposal
The ability to confidently draw upon theoretical argument in order to make an informed choice regarding theoretical position and research methodology in the field of Criminology. Confident use of critical analysis and theoretical vocabulary.
An ability to apply key theoretical approaches in Criminology, and an awareness of the relevance and value of theoretical argument in the investigation of practical and 'real life' questions and problems in the context of criminal justice systems
Brief description
This module will provide students with the knowledge base to design Criminological research. It will provide students with the key qualitative and quantitative research skills which researchers across the field of social sciences are expected to be familiar with. This module will equip students with the skills needed to design a research project, such as understanding the advantages and disadvantages of different forms of research techniques, developing research questions, managing the research process and identifying ethical issues. Student will critically reflect upon the research process. Students have an opportunity to apply this knowledge practically by developing their own research proposal.
Content
Qualitative research design
Quantitative research design
Understanding different forms of qualitative and quantitative data gathering
Evaluating qualitative and quantitative methods in a Criminological context
Making informed methodological decisions
Critical analysis and critique of empirical Criminological literature
Module Skills
| Skills Type | Skills details |
|---|---|
| Creative Problem Solving | Students will need to understand, assess, and resolve ethical issues in the process of designing their research proposal |
| Critical and analytical thinking | Development of confident critically analytical writing at Masters level |
| Real world sense | Students will develop the skills to design a research proposal, a skill which will translate into future research endeavours |
| Subject Specific Skills | The ability to critically analyse and deconstruct a journal article of empirical Criminological focus |
Notes
This module is at CQFW Level 7