166-086 Qualitative Research Strategies

Students intending to do fourth-year honours in Sociology must have completed this subject as part of their major.

Usually one first-year subject in Sociology, Political Science or related fields.

This subject introduces students to qualitative research strategies and methods. As such, it provides insights into the exciting and original contributions that social researchers can make to contemporary understandings of the worlds we inhabit. The subject examines how qualitative researchers gather and analyse data, using observation, interviews and document analysis, and then write a research report. Research strategies considered include case studies, grounded theory, ethnography and action research. This subject is based on students obtaining hands-on experience, through developing a field-based project of relevance to their interest exploring qualitative methods. On completion of this subject, students will understand the process of conducting qualitative research; have hands-on experience in using qualitative research methods; and be familiar both with theoretical approaches used in designing qualitative social research, and with key examples of qualitative research. The subject is structured to be of relevance to students in social science and humanities based disciplines, and to provide skills relevant to a wide range of areas.

• demonstrate critical thinking and analytic skills through research and written communication;

• be able to communicate knowledge intelligibly and economically, both orally and in writing;

• display awareness and understanding of the social, ethical and cultural contexts of research and of our place as researchers.

A written research proposal of 1500 words 40% (due mid-semester) and a written research paper of 2500 words 60% (due during the examination period).

A subject reader will be provided

• K E Esterberg, Qualitative Methods in Social Research. McGraw-Hill 2002.