What will I learn on this module?
Training in research methods provides researchers with an understanding of the “do’s” and “don'ts” associated with employing approaches to the collection and analysis of data. Awareness of research strategies, designs, approaches, and techniques enables researchers to make informed decisions to implement these elements appropriately. The module aims to inform and sensitise you to the choices available when planning to undertake your dissertation; this includes making you aware of a selected range of qualitative and quantitative research strategies, designs, and approaches that you can apply to collecting and analysing primary and secondary data. Such awareness will enable you to make appropriate choices when executing your dissertation. Of equal importance, the module will also introduce you to a range of academic skills and apps that will support you during your programme and while completing your dissertation.
How will I learn on this module?
This module will allow you to develop the relevant subject knowledge you need to complete your dissertation. Your learning will be facilitated through a structured learning and teaching programme, including lectures, seminars, tutor-directed learning activities, and independent study, utilising the digital learning materials presented on the university’s technologically enhanced learning (TEL) platforms. A structured learning path of tutor-directed learning tasks aligned to the essential reading and recommended textbooks will support formally scheduled teaching, reading digital scholarly journal articles, examining case studies, and engaging in problem-based learning tasks. Additional teaching approaches will include video presentations and peer group discussions. The module will also use an interdisciplinary approach to contextualise the presentation of the syllabus and learning materials.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
Tutors will provide guidance and 1-2-1 support (where possible) or use interactive asynchronous online peer support forums on the university’s virtual learning environment (VLE) to support you in your studies. Tutors will use guided independent learning activities, e.g., directed reading. You will supplement this structured support with independent study.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
On completion of the module, you will be able to:
Knowledge & Understanding:
1. Define and evaluate selected essential theories and concepts associated with social scientific research strategies, designs, approaches, and methods.
2. Critically appraise selected essential theories and techniques associated with the nature, design, and process of quantitative and qualitative research strategies, data collection and analysis.
Intellectual / Professional Skills & Abilities:
3. Critically review the extant literature and engage with what others have written through evaluative discourse.
4. Plan a research project, such as a dissertation, and formulate research questions.
Personal Values Attributes (Global/Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
5. Develop and exhibit a Northumbria University postgraduate student's professional and research ethics characteristics.
How will I be assessed?
Formative Assessment
Tutors facilitating the module will assess you in a formative manner to help build your confidence and highlight any misunderstandings you may have about the theoretical and professional concepts presented in the module. Tutors will verbally give you constructive feedback during formally scheduled teaching sessions or digitally using the university’s virtual learning environment (VLE). Your formative feedback aims to help you learn and prepare for the submission of your summative assessment.
Summative Assessment
Tutors will assess you in a summative manner with one examination, which will evaluate your ability to satisfy all the module’s learning outcomes. You will use the university’s virtual learning environment (VLE) to take the examination online. Tutors will use digital feedback tools embedded within the VLE to issue your mark and cumulative feedback.
Pre-requisite(s)
None
Co-requisite(s)
None
Module abstract
Pursuing research is a prerequisite for professional development and career progression throughout science, engineering, and technology. This module will introduce you to the nature, design, approaches, and research methods to support you in completing your dissertation. The module will present qualitative and quantitative research strategies, approaches, methods, and apps, including essential research skills, such as literature searching, reviewing, academic writing, and referencing. These research elements will be presented and explored during tutor-directed, formally scheduled teaching. These sessions will require you to apply your newly acquired knowledge to complete structured tutor-directed learning activities and your independent study. The tutors will use the university’s virtual learning environment (VLE) to support the delivery of the module. Access to video recordings of the lectures captured with Panopto and the university’s Reading List service will facilitate your independent study.
Course info
Credits 20
Level of Study Postgraduate
Mode of Study 1 year Full Time
2 other options available
Department Architecture and Built Environment
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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