Aims and Fit of Module

This module aims to: 1) introduce key concepts of research methodology such as research problem, research design, sampling techniques, research proposal, data collection, data analysis, and research report, etc.; 2) introduce the principles of research ethics; 3) enable students to critically appraise a range of research designs and methodologies

Learning outcomes

A Identify different research methods and their theoretical underpinnings. B Demonstrate an ability to identify, analyse and synthesise literature related to a research question. C Critically analyse and demonstrate an ability to formulate viable research questions. D Demonstrate an understanding and ability to undertake the range of tasks necessary to completing a research project. E Identify and engage with the range of ethical issues involved in the conduct of a research project. F Demonstrate high level written and verbal communication skills.

Method of teaching and learning

The teaching sessions divide into Lectures and Tutorials. Lectures will be used to introduce students to the concepts, theories and the applications covered by the module, supported by materials on LMO and other web-based resources. Animations and/or videos will be shown for some of the topics. Tutorials will help students to deepen their understanding on the subjects of the module, which will run in ways mixed with group discussion, reviewing and reflection, Q&A, and feedback to coursework. The size of the group will vary with the learning objectives. The assessment has 2 components: research proposal (with literature review), and oral presentation, each covering all LOs. The guidelines for the requirement of the reports and the oral presentation will be provided to the students at the beginning of the semester.