466-419 RMA:Introduction to Research Methods

Credit Points

HECS Band

Coordinator

Prerequisites

At least 120 points of Child Development Studies or approved equivalent.

Semester

Contact

Subject Description

An introduction to the study of research methodology with emphasis upon the nature of science and scientific research, the diversity of research paradigms and methods and the process of 'doing' research. Topics will include the scientific method and its applications; the importance of objectivity in research and issues of bias; prediction, hypothesis generation and testing; sampling; variables; different research paradigms including naturalistic inquiry; the range of research methods including qualitative and quantitative approaches; action research; research ethics; use of library facilities in the research process; critical review of relevant literature; from idea to action - the formulation of a research question.

Assessment

A 5000 word assignment which presents a critical review of the literature in an area of research in child development and identifies an appropriate question to be addressed in the supervised research project to be undertaken in RMB: Individual Project.