RESEARCH METHODOLOGIES - 2021/2

Module Overview

This module is aimed at the non-specialist and will provide an accessible introduction to some of the principal tools of social research.  The module will enable students to formulate their own research proposal designed to lead into the final research project.

Module provider

School of Literature and Languages

Module Leader

DIPPOLD Doris (Lit & Langs)

Number of Credits: 15

ECTS Credits: 7.5

Framework: FHEQ Level 7

Module cap (Maximum number of students): N/A

Module Availability

Semester 1

Prerequisites / Co-requisites

None.

Module content

Indicative content includes:

• formulating research questions;


• qualitative and quantitative methodology


• generating qualitative data through interviews; questionnaires and surveys;


• introspection (eg diary studies)


• action research


• case-study research


• qualitative thematic analysis;


• conversation analysis;


• observation methods and behavioural mapping;


• ethical considerations in research

Assessment pattern

Alternative Assessment

N/A

Assessment Strategy

The assessment strategy is designed to provide students with the opportunity to demonstrate the ability to:

• develop research questions 


• identify appropriate methods of data generation and data analysis through informed reflection in light of these research questions


• evaluate others’ research and their own research plans using appropriate criteria 


• reflect critically upon how their personal research proposal might evolve into a final masters level research project

Thus, the summative assessment for this module consists of:

• Presentation of research questions and methodology (15 mins)


• A research proposal which is designed to form the basis of the final research project (2,500 words)

 

Formative assessment

Draft outline of the research proposal to be presented to be submitted for formative feedback in advance of the presentation session (to allow for feedback, initial supervisor allocation and ethical considerations).

Seminar discussion and workshop exercises

Homework tasks

Feedback

Initial feedback on the draft outline proposal and subsequent feedback on the presentation will attempt to ensure that the final written proposal is fit for purpose as required for the final dissertation.

Group feedback on formative tasks will be provided during the input sessions.

Individual summative feedback will be provided online via SurreyLearn.

Module aims

• provide an accessible introduction, for the non-specialist, to some of the principal tools of social research and to some specialist research approaches relevant to Masters programmes
• provide the student with the tools to evaluate evidence that has been generated through various methods and techniques
• enable students to critically evaluate the range of research designs and methodologies in preparation for their own research project
• develop students' understanding of the research process as practised in the social sciences, with particular emphasis on the research methods and techniques available to those interested in investigating issues relevant to English Language teaching

Learning outcomes

Methods of Teaching / Learning

The learning and teaching strategy is designed to:

• Enable students to acquire in-depth knowledge of theoretical issues in second language teaching and learning through attendance at classes and an exploration of scholarly writing in the field;

• Encourage student participation and independent learning, through small group classes, reading outside contact hours and participating in seminars;


• Enable students to engage in analytical and evaluative thinking, to analyse and evaluate concepts, theories and practices associated with research methods in English language learning and teaching through attending classes, and engaging in independent study.


• Acquire in-depth knowledge of the principal tools of social research with particular reference to the methods available for the investigation of issues relevant to English language teaching through attendance at classes and an exploration of scholarly writing in the field.

The learning and teaching methods include:

• Two contact hours per week over the semester;


• Classes will include lectures, seminars and workshops;


• students are expected to engage in extensive reading of scholarly writing outside classes in order to follow lectures and participate in seminars.

Indicated Lecture Hours (which may also include seminars, tutorials, workshops and other contact time) are approximate and may include in-class tests where one or more of these are an assessment on the module. In-class tests are scheduled/organised separately to taught content and will be published on to student personal timetables, where they apply to taken modules, as soon as they are finalised by central administration. This will usually be after the initial publication of the teaching timetable for the relevant semester.

Reading list

https://readinglists.surrey.ac.uk
Upon accessing the reading list, please search for the module using the module code: ELAM011

Please note that the information detailed within this record is accurate at the time of publishing and may be subject to change. This record contains information for the most up to date version of the programme / module for the 2021/2 academic year.