This module provides an introduction to research skills, concepts and issues that are key to both the natural and social sciences. The module is divided into four sections: a. research strategies, b. field research techniques, c. statistical approaches and d. communicating research findings. Therefore the students will be led through the process from defining a research question to data collection and analysis (introducing various qualitative and quantitative statistical approaches) and communicating findings. The aim is to equip students with the knowledge and use of available tools to undertake detailed research projects in addition to the conventions of academic and scientific writing.
Learning Outcomes
To pass this module students will need to be able to:
1. evaluate the issues involved in designing and executing a research programme, within the specific context of field-based, laboratory-based and desk-based research;
2. formulate appropriate research questions, and define scientific and statistical hypotheses;
3. design an appropriate experiment programme to test hypotheses or undertake surveys including assessing the appropriate statistical power;
4. demonstrate understanding of the specialized techniques and approaches involved in collecting, analyzing and communicating research findings;
5. articulate and communicate research findings in various formats to varying audiences;
6. evaluate weaknesses in research skills and data analysis of relevant literature and scientific papers.
Learning Outcomes
To pass this module students will need to be able to:
1. evaluate the issues involved in designing and executing a research programme, within the specific context of field-based, laboratory-based and desk-based research;
2. formulate appropriate research questions, and define scientific and statistical hypotheses;
3. design an appropriate experiment programme to test hypotheses or undertake surveys including assessing the appropriate statistical power;
4. demonstrate understanding of the specialized techniques and approaches involved in collecting, analyzing and communicating research findings;
5. articulate and communicate research findings in various formats to varying audiences;
6. evaluate weaknesses in research skills and data analysis of relevant literature and scientific papers.