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Handbook 1997 : Faculty of Agriculture, Forestry and Horticulture : Agriculture

212-412 Social Research Methods

Note:

Subject to availability.

Credit Points:

16

Coordinator:

Assoc. Professor J W Cary

Timetable:

Semester 2

Contact:

36 hours of lectures and 36 hours of practical work, including a field research project

Objectives:

To develop understanding and skills in social research in rural and other settings.

Students should:

- develop understanding and skills in social research methods relevant to human use of natural resources and the environment;

- be able to apply principles and techniques of social measurement;

- be able to determine the appropriateness of different research techniques for given social research problems related to agriculture and the environment;

- be competent in conducting a survey interview;

- have an understanding of factors influencing environmental behaviour;

- have an understanding of market research techniques.

Content:

Quantitative and qualitative methods in social research. Theory of measurement; measurement of beliefs and attitudes. Surveys as a form of data collection. Sampling procedures; sampling and measurement error. Interviewing techniques; communication skills; group dynamics. Coding and data processing. Social and psychological bases of responses to land degradation problems. Influencing behaviour related to the environment. Market research and consumer behaviour. New issues in extension.

Assessment:

A 3-hour end-of-semester written examination, an assignment, a field project, class exercises and seminar. Written and practical tests may be given throughout the subject.

Prescribed Texts:

  • de Vaus D A, Surveys in Social Research, 4th ed. Allen and Unwin, 1995.
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Handbook 1997 : Faculty of Agriculture, Forestry and Horticulture : Agriculture 
Status:                   OFFICIAL 1997
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Copyright © University of Melbourne 1997.