Qualitative Research Methods

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2015:

Total of 170 hours

Criminology or Sociology at Undergraduate level

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/

This subject forms an advanced overview of theories, methods and ethical issues in qualitative research. The subject will focus on the techniques of field studies, intensive interviewing, and case studies. Students will carry out small scale qualitative research exercises and will present them orally and in writing.

On completion of this subject students should:

• understand the place of qualitative methods within general research strategies of the social sciences;
• have knowledge of specific qualitative techniques such as case study methods,in depth interviewing and participant observation/field research;
• be able to carry out small scale qualitative research projects;
• be able to present their findings orally and in writing.

A 2000 word essay (35%) due mid-semester, and a 3000 word essay (65%) due during the examination period.

Hurdle Requirement: Students are required to attend a minimum of 75% of classes in order to qualify to have their written work assessed. Regular participation in class 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.

Required readings will be made available electronically via the subject LMS site prior to the commencement of semester.

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

On completion of this subject students should:

• have highly developed cognitive, analytical and problem-solving skills;
• have an advanced understanding of complex concepts and the ability to express them lucidly in writing and orally;
• have sophisticated awareness of cultural, ethnic and gender diversities and their implications;
• have an ability to plan work and to use time effectively.

CRIM40002 is a core methods option in the Criminology and Socio-Legal Studies Honours programs and Postgraduate Diplomas. It is a compulsory subject in the Sociology Honours program and the Sociology Postgraduate Diploma.