KB7030 - Research Methods

This module will allow you to develop the relevant subject knowledge. You will learn through a combination of engaging, interactive methodologies and teaching approaches, including lectures, seminars, academic staff-guided independent learning, independent student learning, and by engagement in technologically-enhanced learning (TEL). A directed study of textbooks will support formally scheduled teaching, PSRB reports and scholarly journal articles (hard copy or electronic), critical evaluation of case studies, problem-based learning, simulation and reflection exercises. Additional formally scheduled teaching approaches will include video presentations, peer group discussions and presentations. The module will also use an inter-disciplinary approach to the development of the syllabus and teaching resources.

Academic staff will provide guidance, 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. Academic staff will use guided independent learning activities, e.g., directed reading. You will supplement this structured support with independent learning activities.

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)

On completion of the module you will be able to:

Knowledge & Understanding:
1. Define and evaluate selected key theories and concepts associated with natural and social scientific research strategies, designs, and formulation.
2. Critically appraise selected key theories and techniques associated with the nature and process of experimental, quantitative, and qualitative research and data analysis.

Intellectual / Professional Skills & Abilities:
3. Critically review the literature and engage with what others have written through evaluative discourse.
4. Plan and execute a research project and formulate research questions.

Personal Values Attributes (Global/Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
5. Develop and exhibit the professional and research ethics characteristics of a Northumbria University postgraduate student.

Formative Assessment
Academic staff on the module will assess you in a formative manner to help build your confidence and highlight any misunderstandings you may have of the theoretical and professional concepts presented in the module. Your formative feedback will be given to you either verbally by academic staff on the module during formally-scheduled teaching sessions or digitally using the University’s VLE. Your formative feedback aims to help you learn and prepare for the submission of your summative assessment.

Summative Assessment
Academic staff on the module will assess you in a summative manner by one examination, which will evaluate your ability to satisfy all the module’s learning outcomes. You will use the University’s VLE to sit the examination. Academic staff on the module will use digital feedback tools to issue your feedback.

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Throughout the world of science, engineering, and technology, the ability to pursue research is seen as a pre-requisite for professional development and career progression. This module will introduce you to the nature, approaches, and processes of research. Qualitative and quantitative research methodologies and methods will be introduced to you, including key research skills, such as literature searching and reviewing, and academic writing and referencing. The research approaches and methods that are introduced to you will be explored during academic staff-guided formally scheduled teaching. These sessions will require you to apply your newly-acquired knowledge to the examination of case studies and the completion of structured self-learning activities. The University’s virtual learning environment (VLE) will be used to support the delivery of the module. Access to video recordings of the lectures captured with Panopto and the Talis Aspire digital dynamic reading list will support your self-directed learning.