2016/17 Taught Postgraduate Module Catalogue
PHLT5065M Theory and Practice of Qualitative Research
15 creditsClass Size: 30
Module manager: Mary Godfrey
Email: M.Godfrey@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2016/17
Pre-requisite qualifications
Ability to study at level M (normally has obtained 120 credits at level 3)This module is approved as an Elective
Module summary
The course aims to facilitate the exploration and use of qualitative methods of research based on understanding the theoretical underpinnings of qualitative methodologies. The central focus of the course will be upon the use of qualitative methods to access meaning and develop depth of understanding. It will be organised around the qualitative research process: the iteration between the framing of research questions, developing an appropriate research design, analytic strategies and composing accounts. Participants will be involved in exploring approaches to, and making decisions about sample design, data collection techniques and analysis as the module progresses in the context of developing an ethical practice. The module will be assessed through two written assignments by the course tutor(s). Additionally, one piece of work will involve a verbal presentation to the course group. The clarity and content of this presentation will also be assessed.Objectives
The aim of this module is to enable students to:(a) describe the assumptions, principles and claims to knowledge of qualitative research;
(b) understand the iterative nature of the qualitative research process and its component elements: devising sampling strategies, identifying and appraising the appropriateness and effectiveness of different data collection methods, understanding different approaches to data management, analysis, interpretation and composing accounts;
(c) consider issues of validity and reliability as they relate to the qualitative research context;
(d) understand issues in developing an ethical practice.
Learning outcomes
At the end of this module, students should be able to:
(a) understand and explain the particular claims to knowledge made by qualitative research;
(b) explain how and in what ways data from qualitative research can contribute to understanding of health, illness and service delivery processes, outcomes and the evaluation of complex interventions;
(c) devise sampling strategies for a qualitative study;
(d) critically discuss different methods of data collection and their effectiveness and appropriateness in addressing diverse research questions;
(e) conduct analysis of qualitative data, coding and developing themes and concepts;
(f) write and present research accounts;
(g) demonstrate understanding of the issues involved in developing an ethical research practice.
Skills outcomes
- Conduct a critical appraisal of a qualitative research paper.
- Write and present a research proposal.
- Develop and complete a self evaluation tool to assess progress and critically evaluate practice.
Syllabus
Beginning qualitative research - principles, assumptions and practice implications; developing research questions; securing data - access, sampling strategies, data collection methods including participant and non-participant observation, depth interviewing, focus groups, use of documents; data management, analysis and interpretation and composing accounts.
Participants will be involved in exploring approaches to, and making decisions about sample design, data collection techniques and analysis as the module progresses. Ethical dilemmas in respect of each stage of the qualitative research process will be considered.
Teaching methods
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
| Class tests, exams and assessment | 1 | 6.00 | 6.00 |
| Group learning | 20 | 1.00 | 20.00 |
| Lecture | 11 | 1.00 | 11.00 |
| Seminar | 4 | 1.00 | 4.00 |
| Tutorial | 5 | 1.00 | 5.00 |
| Private study hours | 104.00 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 46.00 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 150.00 | ||
Private study
- 5 hours directed pre-tutorial reading- 5 hours preparatory for group work
- 4 hours e-mail discussion forum
- 90 hours course reading, preparing and writing up assignments
Opportunities for Formative Feedback
- Individual problem-solving exercises and feedback to fellow students and course tutors- Group problem-solving exercises and feedback to fellow students and course tutors
- Development of a self-evaluation framework to assess progress and critically evaluate practice
- Written assignment: 1,500 word critique of a qualitative research paper
- Presentation and discussion of research proposal (see Assessment)
Methods of assessment
Coursework
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
| Research Proposal | Theoretical framework, research rationale and detailed design for a qualitative study - 2,000 words. Presentation of research proposal to course participants and tutor(s) | 70.00 |
| Critique | of a qualitative research paper - 1,000 words | 30.00 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100.00 | |
Formative Assessment: reflexive diary to assess progress and critically evaluate skills development. Must complete for progression.
Reading list
The reading list is available from the Library websiteLast updated: 19/04/2017
Browse Other Catalogues
- Undergraduate module catalogue
- Taught Postgraduate module catalogue
- Undergraduate programme catalogue
- Taught Postgraduate programme catalogue
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team.PROD