121-503 Research Methods and Design

In this subject research modules are offered in intensive mode over summer. Students should consult Dr Fraser MacDonald, the modules coordinator, for details by November in the year prior to enrolment. The subject dates and HECS/course fee census date for this subject change each year. Check your enrolment record for the correct census date for this subject.

Admission to the postgraduate diploma or fourth year honours or any masters coursework degree.

This subject will introduce students to a range of research methodologies relevant to both their chosen careers and their thesis research. Students will choose three 'modules' from the list of modules available. The program coordinator or thesis supervisor must approve the choice and number of modules. The actual modules offered vary from year to year, but typically, they cover topics such as the Descriptive Statistics, Inferential Statistics, Geographical Information Systems, Geocomputing, Library Information Retrieval, Electronic Focus Groups, Qualitative Research Methods, Field Methods and Research Ethics.

• an introductory level of skill at using various methodologies;

• an ability to organize one's time sufficiently to submit assignments on schedule within an intensive mode of teaching;

• a keen understanding of the advantages, disadvantages and dangers of using different research methods in different ways;

• considerable expertise in skills that are essential for your own research but which have not been studied to any great depth hitherto.

This will depend on the modules chosen and it will vary from small assignments to be completed during the intensive two days during which that module is taught, through to small assignments or a major essay to be completed by the end of March. Such assessment will total 5000 words for 4th year students and 6000 words for masters students.