Introduction to Qualitative Research Methods

Unit code: UGR7004 | Study level: Postgraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Online Real Time
Prerequisites
N/A
Overview
Enquire

Overview

Introduction to Qualitative Research Methods provides students with a comprehensive introduction to the principles and concepts of qualitative research methods and focuses in detail on some common qualitative approaches and techniques, including phenomenology, ethnography and narrative inquiry, which may be of potential relevance to the design of students’ own research.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. demonstrate an advanced and integrated understanding of a broad range of qualitative methods applicable to their field;
  2. reflect critically and creatively on studies that employ a range of qualitative research methodologies and methods and their applicability to research problems in their field, including the designs of research studies;
  3. develop skills in the gathering, management, analysis, evaluation and interpretation of a broad range of qualitative data;
  4. demonstrate the ability to use qualitative research software packages such as NVivo for exploratory data analysis; and
  5. present to an interdisciplinary audience a coherent and sustained argument justifying their choice of qualitative research methodologies and methods for a specific project, using high level communication and technical skills and awareness of ethical issues.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Pass mark 50%

Assessment type: Assignment
|
Grade: 40%
Four short assignments (10% each) that focus on skill development in qualitative methods and techniques (1500 words in total)
Assessment type: Presentation
|
Grade: 20%
Presentation following critical review of other studies (1000 word equivalent)
Assessment type: Assignment
|
Grade: 40%
Major Assignment designed to test in-depth understanding of qualitative methodologies and capacity to choose, employ and defend (2500-3000 words)

Total word equivalence is 4500-5500 words.

Required reading

Nil.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Doctor of Philosophy (Integrated)
UPAG | Doctoral degree | Duration: 4 years
Doctor of Philosophy (Integrated)
UPAE | Doctoral degree | Duration: 4 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

Search for units, majors & minors