KA7058 - Research Methods

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

None

None

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.