Sociology and Criminology

Doing Social Research: working with qualitative data

Module code: L3079
Level 5
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Workshop
Assessment modes: Portfolio

On this module, you’ll learn how to conduct sociological research using qualitative methods. You’ll explore key debates in the social sciences related to:

research design
epistemology
studying sensitive and ethical issues.

Practical experience will focus on gathering and analysing qualitative data through methods such as:

interviewing
participant observation
textual analysis.

You’ll carry out a project using one of these methods.

Module learning outcomes

Identify a sociological issue or question that could be investigated with qualitative data
Design and pilot a research project using a single qualitative method and reflect on their experience
Reflect on ethical issues raised in doing social research
Analyse and evaluate qualitative data and concepts