Course description
It is web-based and run on an open learning basis, aiming to embed comprehensive research training support within the professional contexts of the learner groups.
The modules are flexible, so that they can be customised to take account of the interests of diverse constituencies. There is a particular emphasis on researchers developing the capacity for critical self-reflection, leading to the formulation of research questions and to the choices of research design and analysis that best explore issues in their own areas of concern.
The programme will enable students to evaluate, design, conduct, analyse and justify educational research with the critical insight born of understanding the differences between types of research, and the possibility of combining them, in terms of:
* Underlying conceptions of the person, social relations, education and research practice
* First-order principles which define valid research problems and knowledge
* Political and social assumptions about the purpose of research and its relationship to constituencies of practice and policy
* Research strategies implied by different philosophical assumptions
* Techniques for engaging in knowledge-gathering from educational settings and sources
* Techniques for analysing data of all types
* Methods of disseminating research outcomes and emergent issues
* Use of research for educational and social ends
MSc Core Modules
* Educational Research and Enquiry
* Design Strategies in Educational Research
* Data Collection in Educational Research
* Data Analysis in Educational Research
MSc Option Modules
* Further Quantitative Research Design and Data Analysis
* Further Qualitative Research Design and Data Analysis
* Educational Research and the Social Science Disciplines
* Reviewing and Analysing Research Literature
* Writing for Funding and Publication
Successful completion of the core modules, taken sequentially, followed by successful completion of one other from the list of optional modules, leads to the award of a Postgraduate Diploma. Subsequent completion of the dissertation leads to the award of MSc.
The modules may also be taken independently as freestanding modules, or as components within cognate academic or professional development courses.
Course Length
2 years, part-time
