SOCI3042

Qualitative research methods

Offer semester
1st semester

Lecture time
Thursday 10:30 – 12:20

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 report. Students will learn the foundations of qualitative research, the relationship between theory and evidence, how to design research, and how to collect and analyze qualitative data. In discussing various kinds of qualitative research methods, we will also consider the ethical implications of social research. Classical and contemporary studies in sociology will be used as examples to illustrate the issues involved in social research.

Course learning outcomes

  1. Formulate research questions and collect your own data using qualitative research methods.
  2. Analyze qualitative data.
  3. Master research skills applicable for a wide range of undertakings.

Assessment

TasksWeighting
Assignment 1 10%
Assignment 2 20%
Independent Research Project 40%
Project Presentation 10%
Participation20%

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