Unit rationale, description and aim
Qualitative research focuses on complex real-world phenomena that results in rich, in-depth and situated understanding of that phenomena. The unit will explore a variety of qualitative research approaches. Research questions, research design and research methods for qualitative data collection and analysis will be examined with a view to developing and conducting rigorous qualitative research studies. The unit aims to increase students’ knowledge and skill in aspects of qualitative research methods appropriate to health science research.
Learning outcomes
To successfully complete this unit you will be able to demonstrate you have achieved the learning outcomes (LO) detailed in the below table.
Each outcome is informed by a number of graduate capabilities (GC) to ensure your work in this, and every unit, is part of a larger goal of graduating from ACU with the attributes of insight, empathy, imagination and impact.
Explore the graduate capabilities.
Describe the position of the researcher in a selec...
Learning Outcome 01
Explain the qualities of a rigorous qualitative re...
Learning Outcome 02
Demonstrate knowledge and skills in selected quali...
Learning Outcome 03
Develop a research proposal informed by knowledge ...
Learning Outcome 04
Content
CONTENT
Theoretical and paradigmatic frameworks in qualitative research
- Interpretive
- Critical
- Postmodern
Designing qualitative research in Health Science research
Qualitative research methodologies
- Ethnography
- Grounded theory
- Phenomenology
- Action research
- Case study
- Discourse analysis
Sampling methods
Ethical issues
Data collection methods
- Interviews
- Focus groups
- Participant observation
Reflexivity in qualitative research
Data analysis methods
Building rigour into qualitative research
Data management
Assessment strategy and rationale
In order to pass this unit, students are required to achieve a cumulative grade of at least 50% across all assessments. The assessment strategy used allows for the progressive development of knowledge and skills in relation to qualitative research methods so that students can demonstrate their preparedness to undertake a scholarly research study using a qualitative research approach.
In order to develop their preparedness to undertake a scholarly research-based project, students need to develop a firm understanding of important aspects of qualitative research methodology, such as data collection and data analysis. The first assessment task involves the submission of posts made on the electronic discussion forum. The discussion forum allows students to demonstrate their initial understanding of important aspects of qualitative research methodology and to extend their knowledge via discussion with the lecturer and peers.
The second assessment task requires students to demonstrate their knowledge of these aspects of methodology and to consider whether to continue with this data collection and/or data analysis method in their research proposal.
The final assessment task involves the development of a research proposal using qualitative research methodology. This requires students to demonstrate an understanding of the various elements of a research proposal and their knowledge of qualitative research methodology with respect to these elements.
Overview of assessments
Discussion Forum Requires students to demonstrat...
Discussion Forum
Requires students to demonstrate their knowledge of challenging issues and processes relevant to qualitative research methods through collaborative engagement with peers and the lecturer.
25%
Essay: Data Collection /Analysis Requires studen...
Essay: Data Collection /Analysis
Requires students to demonstrate their understanding of an aspect of qualitative research design.
25%
Expanded Methods Section of the Research Proposal...
Expanded Methods Section of the Research Proposal (2500 words)
Requires students to demonstrate their understanding of various elements of a research proposal and qualitative research methodology, and methods.
50%
Learning and teaching strategy and rationale
TEACHING AND LEARNING STRATEGY AND RATIONALE
Teaching and learning strategies utilised in this unit will support students in meeting the aim and achieving the learning outcomes relevant to this unit as well as to the broader course learning outcomes.
Online mode
This unit utilises an active learning approach whereby students will engage in readings and video-recordings, e-Module activities and opportunities to collaborate with peers in an online environment. This can involve, but is not limited to, on-line discussion forums, chat rooms, guided reading and webinars. In addition, learning e-modules and links to electronic readings will be provided on Canvas so as to guide students’ reading and extend other aspects of online learning.
Through an online learning platform, students will have the opportunity to reflect on important aspects of qualitative research methods. This may include, but is not limited to, consideration of research paradigms, the position of the researcher in qualitative research and hallmarks of rigour.
This approach to learning is flexible and inclusive, allowing students the opportunity to analyse and critically evaluate various approaches to qualitative research design in preparation for undertaking a supervised research project.