191-004 Introduction to Research Methods

Formerly available as 191-203/303. Students who have completed 191-203 or 191-303 are not eligible to enrol in this subject. This is a methods subject.

Usually 25 points of first year criminology.

This subject aims to provide second/third year students with a critical appreciation of different ways of approaching and evaluating research in criminology. It emphasises the importance of understanding the research design process as a whole, while introducing students to a range of qualitative, quantitative and mixed research methods to help them critically assess and undertake basic research in criminology. The subject also canvasses associated ethical issues, including in relation to Indigenous communities, and requires students to undertake a number of theoretical and practical exercises in research methods and design.

• have considerable capacity for independent critical thought and self-directed learning;

• have significant cognitive, analytical and problem-solving skills;

• understand complex concepts and express them lucidly in writing and orally;

• have advanced awareness of cultural, ethnic and gender diversities and their implications;

• have an ability to plan work and to use time effectively.

Two written tasks totalling 2000 words (50%) due during semester and a research design assignment of 2000 words (50%) due at the end of semester.

A subject reader will be available from the University Bookshop