Abstract

In this subject students articulate a research question of their choice and design a small-scale project to investigate it. They also undertake a critical analysis/review of the scholarly literature in the topic area and write a detailed research proposal based on their project design.

Syllabus

Choosing a research areaConducting a search of the literatureSynthesising and critiquing the literatureSpecifying researchable focus questions/problemsChoosing appropriate research design and methodologyUnderstanding and applying ethical guidelinesWriting a research project proposal

Assessment items

1. Review of Literature and Research Question
2. Research Project Proposal

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
1.
be able to conceptualise and propose a justifiable research project proposal with clearly articulated objectives;
2.
be able to plan and write a critical review of the scholarly literature as a component of this proposal;
3.
be able to design a small-scale research project that uses appropriate methods and that is feasible and likely to lead to worthwhile outcomes; and
4.
be able to clearly articulate, in both the proposal and any required ethics application, the questions that give rise to the study and the issues that arise from its design and conduct.

Assumed knowledge

It is expected that a methods subject such as ASH505 is studied either before or at the same time as this subject.

Enrolment restrictions

This subject is only available to students studying courses at AQF levels 8-9.