Qualitative Research Enquiry 4H PSYCH4096

  • Academic Session: 2025-26
  • School: School of Psychology and Neuroscience
  • Credits: 10
  • Level: Level 4 (SCQF level 10)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 1
  • Available to Visiting Students: No
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

This course supports students to build on their existing research skills in qualitative enquiry, considering the philosophical underpinnings which can inform onward planning, design, and interpretation of qualitative findings. Different methodological approaches to collecting data and approaches to analysis will be critically explored. The course reflects contemporary developments in the field such as the use of computer assisted analysis, participatory methods and the role of internet mediated 'secondary' data

Timetable

2 hour lectures 5 week block

Requirements of Entry

Successful completion of level 3H psychology single honours and a pass in PSYCH4057

Excluded Courses

None

Assessment

1. Small group submission on a chosen area of qualitative research enquiry (75%)

2. Individual submission (25%): Students will develop a statement of positionality in relation to a research topic of their choice.

Are reassessment opportunities available for all summative assessments? Not applicable for Honours courses

Reassessments are normally available for all courses, except those which contribute to the Honours classification. For non-Honours courses, students are offered reassessment in all or any of the components of assessment if the satisfactory (threshold) grade for the overall course is not achieved at the first attempt. This is normally grade D3 for undergraduate students and grade C3 for postgraduate students. Exceptionally it may not be possible to offer reassessment of some coursework items, in which case the mark achieved at the first attempt will be counted towards the final course grade. Any such exceptions for this course are described below.

Course Aims

This course aims to develop theoretical, practical, and professional skills in qualitative enquiry, including accessing different sources of qualitative data and recognising the role of theory in aligning with qualitative analysis. The course reflects contemporary developments in the field such as the use of computer assisted analysis, participatory methods and the role of internet mediated 'secondary' data. Developing a critical, ethical, reflexive and participatory lens is central to achieving the course aims.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of the course, students will be able to;

■ Demonstrate an understanding of the different epistemological and ontological positions inherent in different qualitative approaches.

■ Select appropriate method of qualitative analysis that offer a good fit to research questions and the data collection strategies available.

■ Explore and apply criteria useful to evaluating qualitative research and writing up qualitative research

■ Recognise and implement opportunities to engage in ethical, reflective and reflexive practice during qualitative research enquiry.

■ Identify innovations in the field such as the use of computer aided analysis, participatory methods and internet mediated secondary data..

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.