Research Methods for Development

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2015:

170 hours

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

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

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 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.

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.

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.

A reading list will be provided by the subject coordinator.

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

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.