CRIM3402 Advanced Research Methods and Analysis

An understanding of social and socio-legal research methods is highly regarded in the workplace and essential for successful completion of honours and postgraduate studies. This research methods topic brings together a range of essential research skills designed to provide students with a grounding in social science research skills. This topic will provide students with a conceptual understanding of research methodologies, practical skills in employing different research methods, and skills in analysing both quantitative and qualitative research data.

This topic aims to:

• Examine major epistemological frameworks for understanding research methodologies
• Develop a critical understanding of the criteria used for assessing research quality
• Develop a reflective understanding of a range of quantitative and qualitative social science research methods
• Develop the skills to be able to analyse quantitative and qualitative data, including being able to use major analytical software packages
• Examine ethical issues relating to the conduct of social science research

1. Apply epistemological frameworks underlying research methodologies and methods
2. Apply and critically evaluate a range of quantitative and qualitative social science research methods
3. Analyse quantitative and qualitative research data
4. Recognise and critique ethical issues in relating to the conduct of social science research