793-414 Methods of Social Research

Credit Points

HECS Band

Coordinator

Semester

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Subject Description

On completion of the subject, students will be able to demonstrate the ability to:

• define and analyse a particular social issue or problem related to agriculture or rural communities;

• describe the differences between quantitative and qualitative research methodologies;

• illustrate with suitable examples where each of these two methodologies might best be used to research a given issue or problem;

• explain the methods used to validate the data obtained by each of those two different methodologies;

• describe the differences between primary and secondary data;

• identify the ethical issues in carrying out social research;

• select and use suitable statistical methods, including the use of computer programs, to analyse research data;

• design a research project proposal in an appropriate social research area for this subject, such as extension, marketing or a study of rural communities.

The content includes: Problem definition and analysis. Quantitative and qualitative methodologies - their uses, applications, methods and limitations, validation of data. Primary and secondary data. Ethical issues. Statistical methods. Designing and managing an effective research program. Writing a research project proposal.

Assessment

Two assignments covering course activities and concept map (35%); Research Proposal Development (65%).

Prescribed Texts

• Bouma G D, The Research Process. (3rd ed) Oxford University Press 1995.