Department of Social & Policy Sciences, Unit Catalogue 2009/10 |
SP10059: The principles and uses of social science |
 Credits:
| 6 |
| Level:
| Certificate |
| Period: | Semester 1 |
| Assessment:
| CW 50%, ES 50% |
| Supplementary Assessment: | SP10059 Coursework - Supplementary only (where allowed by programme regulations) |
| Requisites:
| |
| Description: | Aims: The aims of this unit are to introduce students to: 1. the major methodological traditions in sociological research 2. the main principles of research design 3. some of the main uses of social science knowledge 4. key study and learning skills required in social science 5. key computing skills. Learning Outcomes: By the end of this unit the students should be able to: * match appropriate research methods to an object or area of sociological investigation * critically evaluate published research studies * understand the relationship between social science arguments and evidence * reflect on and develop their learning skills * use basic Information and Computing Technology (ICT) skills to the standard required by the European Computer Driving Licence. Skills: Research skills * to think creatively and analytically * to evaluate others' arguments and research * to critically evaluate and assess research and evidence from a number of different sources * to select appropriate and relevant information from a wide source and large body of knowledge * to synthesise information from a number of sources in order to gain a coherent understanding * to utilise problem solving skills * To design questionnaires and survey samples Study Skills * Note taking, avoiding plagiarism, using the library, gathering and using information, constructing a bibliography, referencing * Basic information and computer technology skills (word processing, email, using the web to search for information) * Essay research, preparation and writing skills * Revision and examination skills * Time-management and administrative skills * To learn independently and be able to assess own learning needs. Content: * Reading and reviewing * Library search (including online searches) * Writing and avoiding plagiarism * Introduction to quantitative and qualitative research methods * Ethics and social research * The uses of social science knowledge * Knowledge of applied research * Media sources and social science * ECDL skills (workshops) * Using university information systems. |