RSCH08006 2013 Research Methods
Full Title
Research Methods
Transcript Title
Research Methods
Code
RSCH08006
Attendance
N/A %
Subject Area
RSCH - Research
Department
ESCI - Environmental Science
Level
08 - NFQ Level 8
Credit
05 - 05 Credits
Duration
Semester
Fee
€
Start Term
2013 - Full Academic Year 2013-14
End Term
2019 - Full Academic Year 2019-20
Author(s)
Billy Fitzgerald, Ian McLoughlin, James Moran
Programme Membership
SG_SENVI_K08 201300 Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Science in Environmental Science
SG_SENVI_K08 201400 Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Science in Environmental Science
SG_SSCIE_H08 201600 Bachelor of Science (Honours)
SG_SSCIE_H08 201700 Bachelor of Science (Honours)
SG_SAGRI_H08 201800 Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Science in Agri-Food Science
Description
This module is designed to develop process, presentation and project management skills to prepare learners to complete their research projects. The module explores literature gathering and sourcing, assessing information, scientific report writing, research project planning and management. Together with their research project it provides students with a taster for scientific research and develops a more in depth understanding of how science works (the scientific method) and how information is gathered and evaluated.
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this module the learner will/should be able to;
1.
Demonstrate an understanding of the scientific research process (from formulating questions and hypothesis to quantitative and qualitative research methods to research reporting and the peer review process)
2.
Assess and critically evaluate various literature sources and conduct a literature review
3.
Develop a research proposal
4.
Report and present research findings clearly and precisely
Teaching and Learning Strategies
.
Module Assessment Strategies
Module will be assessed using a combination of continuous assessment and course work. Assessments are designed to indicate progress towards achievement of learning outcomes and to incentivise student learning.
Repeat Assessments
.
Indicative Syllabus
The scientific method and an introduction to the research process
Research ethics
Literature review (conducting a literature review and critical analysis of research literature)
Quantitative versus qualitative research methods
Sampling and experimental design
Research proposals
Research project planning and management
Research presentation: report and paper writing
The peer review process
Coursework & Assessment Breakdown
Coursework & Continuous Assessment
100 %
Coursework Assessment
| Title | Type | Form | Percent | Week | Learning Outcomes Assessed | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Performance Evaluation Participation in group discussions and peer review of each other work | Continuous Assessment | UNKNOWN | 15 % | OnGoing | 1,2 |
| 2 | Performance Evaluation Assessment of quality of feedback to group members (written evidence and group interview) | Continuous Assessment | UNKNOWN | 15 % | OnGoing | 1,2 |
| 3 | Short Answer Questions Qs on ethical, legal and social issues related to research project | Continuous Assessment | UNKNOWN | 15 % | Week 6 | 1 |
| 4 | Written Report Mini literature review | Continuous Assessment | UNKNOWN | 30 % | Week 8 | 1,2,4 |
| 5 | Written Report Research proposal | Continuous Assessment | UNKNOWN | 25 % | Week 12 | 1,3 |
Full Time Mode Workload
| Type | Location | Description | Hours | Frequency | Avg Workload |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | Flat Classroom | Lectures on key research methods topics | 1 | Weekly | 1.00 |
| Seminar | Flat Classroom | Combination of short presentation, group participation and exercises on research topics | 2 | Fortnightly | 1.00 |
| Tutorial | Computer Laboratory | IT for research methods | 1 | Fortnightly | 0.50 |
| Independent Learning | UNKNOWN | Independent learning | 4.5 | Weekly | 4.50 |
Total Full Time Average Weekly Learner Contact Time 2.50 Hours
Module Resources
Non ISBN Literary Resources
Harrad, S., Batty, L., Diamond, M. & Arhonditsis, G. 2008. Students projects in environemntal science. Wiley
Leedy, P.D. & Ormrod, J. E. 2010. Practical Research. Planning and Design. 9th Edn. Pearson Education International
Other Resources
Additional resources will be made available on IT Sligo learn online system (Moodle). Will contain pdfs of powerpoint lectures and links to additional reading material for selected topics
Additional Information
None