MMD002-Advanced Qualitative Methods

Module Provider: Leadership, Organisations and Behaviour
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:NA
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2021/2

Module Convenor: Prof Karen Jansen
Email: karen.jansen@henley.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This is a compulsory module delivered at University of Reading providing an overview of qualitative research methods and analytic techniques. The two main themes are: a) intellectual traditions underpinning qualitative research methods; b) research design, data collection and analytic issues associated with conducting qualitative research.

These themes are explored through relevant methodological and philosophical theories and conceptual frameworks, as well as exemplar studies and students’ own work. Students are encouraged to engage actively and critically with the theoretical and empirical content of the module through interactive lectures drawing upon their own research as examples. Moreover, students are expected to demonstrate an ability to integrate theories and research practice in their coursework.

Aims:

The module aims to deepen students’ understanding of qualitative research, particularly in the area of business, organisational, social and management studies.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module students will be able to demonstrate a critical understanding of:

• Various methodologies within the qualitative tradition and their associated research methods;


• Qualitative research design, including the role of the researcher;


• High impact qualitative research.

They will also be able to demonstrate their ability to prod uce a research design and conduct an exercise in a qualitative method.

Additional outcomes:

The module also aims to encourage the development of oral communication skills and the students’ effectiveness in group situations. Structured activities are designed to develop analytical skills, abilities to construct original arguments and independent learning. Students are encouraged to develop additional IT skills through the use of relevant web resources and communication techniques, including Blackboard.

Outline content:

The module addresses key qualitative research philosophies, methods and approaches through 10 weekly lectures:

1. Introduction to Qualitative Methodology


2. Philosophy of Science


3. Design Issues and Sampling


4. Interviewing Skills


5. Case Study Method and Analysis


6. Ethnography and Observation


7. Grounded Theory


8. Process and Longitudinal Resea rch


9. Coding and Data Analysis


10. Generating Theory

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The module comprises interactive lectures where students are encouraged to discuss their own research and apply the topics to their own area and that of others in the class. Students are encouraged to familiarise themselves with key readings and contribute to the lectures, sharing their ideas and relevant journal articles from their research area. Some classes have exercises to reinforce the learning while others require students to give an account of how a particular research method is used in their field. Students are expected to have supervision with their supervisors on at least four occasions during the course to clarify their use of methodology.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

A final report (no more than 5000 words) worth 100% due in week 34.

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:

Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:

A minimum mark of 50%

Reassessment arrangements:

By assessment only in August/September.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

Last updated: 8 July 2021