An Introduction to Research, Ethics and Reasoning

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Abstract

This subject introduces the principle of ethics, the process of logical reasoning, research methods and the ways of describing and displaying data. Students will explore the basic principles of ethics and how they apply to research with human and animal participants. Different ways of thinking in relation to research are examined. Students will learn about logical reasoning and reflexivity and the importance of these processes for research. Quantitative and qualitative research methods and how these are applied to specific research questions will be examined. The subject will examine the basic methods researchers use to describe and display quantitative data, and some of the methods used to analyse qualitative data. Students will also be introduced to data analysis packages including SPSS and NVivo.

Syllabus

The importance of ethics in researchPrinciples of ethicsAPS Code of Ethics, the National Statement of Ethical Conduct in Human Research and the Australian Code for the Care and use of Animals for Scientific PurposesThe role of ethics committees and boardsdifferent ways of thinking in research (for example, empiricism, rationalism etc.)DCritical … For more content click the Read More button below.

The importance of ethics in research
Principles of ethics
APS Code of Ethics, the National Statement of Ethical Conduct in Human Research and the Australian Code for the Care and use of Animals for Scientific Purposes
The role of ethics committees and boards
different ways of thinking in research (for example, empiricism, rationalism etc.)D
Critical evaluation
Logical development of an argument
Reflexivity in professional practice and research
Different types of research questions, analysis and interpretation (quantitative and qualitative)
Quantitative research methods
Qualitative research methods
Different types of qualitative data, data collection methods and analyses

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

demonstrate an understanding of the general principles of ethics as they apply to research;

demonstrate an understanding of the different ways of thinking in relation to research;

discuss why logical reasoning and reflexivity are important in research;

demonstrate critical evaluation skills;

identify the method, quantitative or qualitative, required to answer specific research questions; and

demonstrate an understanding of some of the methods researchers use to analyse qualitative data.