Research Methods for Development

Subject DEVT90041 (2015)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2015.

Credit Points: 12.5
Level: 9 (Graduate/Postgraduate)
Dates & Locations:

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2015:

March, Parkville - Taught on campus.
Pre-teaching Period Start not applicable
Teaching Period 02-Mar-2015 to 01-May-2015
Assessment Period End 26-Jun-2015
Last date to Self-Enrol 13-Mar-2015
Census Date 27-Mar-2015
Last date to Withdraw without fail 15-May-2015

July, Parkville - Taught on campus.
Pre-teaching Period Start not applicable
Teaching Period 27-Jul-2015 to 18-Sep-2015
Assessment Period End 20-Nov-2015
Last date to Self-Enrol 06-Aug-2015
Census Date 21-Aug-2015
Last date to Withdraw without fail 09-Oct-2015


Timetable can be viewed here. For information about these dates, click here.
Time Commitment: Contact Hours: This subject will be offered to students twice in the year, March & July. A 3 hour seminar per week in weeks 1 - 8 of semester.
Total Time Commitment:

170 hours

Prerequisites:

200 point program:

Admission to 097AB Master of Development Studies and Completion of 100 points

150 point program:

Admission to 097AB Master of Development Studies and Completion of 50 points

Corequisites: None
Recommended Background Knowledge:

Students enrolling in this subject must have completed a Bachelor of Arts degree or equivalent.

Non Allowed Subjects: None
Core Participation Requirements:

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Description, Subject Objectives, Generic Skills and Assessment Requirements of this entry.The University is dedicated to provide support to those with special requirements. Further details on the disability support scheme can be found at the Disability Liaison Unit website: http://www.services.unimelb.edu.au/disability/

Coordinator

Dr Rachael Diprose

Contact

Dr. Rachael Diprose

rachael.diprose@unimelb.edu.au

Subject Overview:

This subject will focus on research methods as they apply to development work and an understanding of the various stages of research: Formulation of research questions and hypotheses and identifying the most appropriate and feasible approaches to data collection and analysis; the communication and reporting of results; identifying ethical concerns; and how to develop skills in reflexivity. Particular attention will be placed on research techniques including participant observation, interviews, questionnaires, focus groups, action and participatory research techniques, case studies, and the use of secondary and other data sources. It will conclude with a discussion of the cross-cultural context, use of local knowledge and how best to represent and reflect the needs of participants.

Learning Outcomes:

Students who successfully complete this subject should:

  • be capable of managing development projects in the field, in a manner that is sensitive to local circumstances and needs;
  • acquire skills in cross-cultural analysis;
  • learn the art of writing field notes.
Assessment:

A joint summary (each participant will contribute 500 words) of a seminar presentation summarizing and critiquing the assigned reading assignment for specified weeks (10%) due throughout the intensive period, a 2,000 word essay on research methods in development (40%) due at the end of the intensive teaching period, and a 2,500 word critical analysis of a case-study in development research (50%) due in early October.

Hurdle Requirement: This subject has a minimum Hurdle Requirement of 75% seminar attendance. Regular participation in seminars is required.

Assessment submitted late without an approved extension will be penalised at 10% per working day. In-class tasks missed without approval will not be marked. All pieces of written work must be submitted to pass this subject.


Prescribed Texts:

A reading list will be provided by the subject coordinator.

Breadth Options:

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills:

Students who successfully complete this subject should:

  • demonstrate relevance of the topic to broader development debates;
  • gain and understanding of field methods appropriate for development.
Links to further information: http://www.ssps.unimelb.edu.au/study/ads/
Related Majors/Minors/Specialisations: 100 Point Master of Development Studies
100 Point Master of Development Studies (Gender && Development)
150 Point Master of Development Studies
150 Point Master of Development Studies (Gender && Development)
200 Point Master of Development Studies
200 Point Master of Development Studies (Gender && Development)
Development
Development
Development Studies
Development Studies
Education
Education
Gender and Development Specialisation - 100 Point Program
Gender and Development Specialisation - 150 Point Program
Gender and Development Specialisation - 200 Point Program
Tailored Specialisation
Tailored Specialisation

Download PDF version.