The aim of this module is to enhance the learner’s knowledge, understanding and ability to use research in community, youth and voluntary setting through the introduction of the main qualitative and quantitative research methodologies commonly utilised within the youth, voluntary and community sector. The development of skills in quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis is a pivotal way to ensure that the student develops key proficiencies in research. Additionally this module will provide learners with an in-depth understanding of significant research methodologies commonly used for intervention, development and change within communities and groups such as action research and community based participatory research.
Introduction to research
Role of research,Purpose and design of research,Paradigms, methodology, methods.
Methods
Using secondary sources of quantitative data,Purpose of questionnaires, Questionnaire design and administration, Sampling, Developing a codebook, Data analysis Data presentation Qualitative interviewing- Focus groups- EthnographyAction ResearchAction research in the communityThe action research cycleIssues and challenges in action researchCommunity based Participatory Research Principles of community based research Working with diverse communities Issues and challenges of participatory research
Software/Processing
An introduction to statistical management software (SPSS/Microsoft Excel)Basic Statistics in ExcelCreating charts and graphs in ExcelOrSPSS The structure of SPSS data files Preparing an SPSS data file for a questionnaire Transferring raw data into SPSS - coding Data analysis Univariate analysis Bivariate analysis - crosstabulation Non-Parametric Tests Pearson’s Chi Squared Parametric TestsAn introduction to t-TestsAn introduction to Nvivo.Coding/NodesImporting and processing of data.Reference to MaxQDA qualitative data analysis software
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Other Assessment(s) | 100 |