APME40-Qualitative Research Methods

Module Provider: Agr and Food Econ
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2020/1

Email: g.zanello@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

Gain fundamental knowledge of qualitative research methods and evaluate the contribution of such methods to social science research, particularly in relation to economics and as applied in the fields of agriculture and food. Learn through integrated lectures, practical sessions, and applied group work.

Aims:
This module aims to introduce students to qualitative research methods and to provide students with an appreciation of the contribution of such methods to social science research, particularly in relation to economics and as applied in the fields of agriculture and food.

Assessable learning outcomes:
At the end of this module students will be able to:
•Recognize the role and value of qualitative research methods to social science research.
•Understand the objectives and characteristics of quantitative and qualitative research methods and the synergies between the two.
•Assess the circumstances under which particular qualitative techniquesresearch methods might be used and why and be able to apply them in practice.
•Design and evaluate qualitative research

Additional outcomes:

Outline content:
•Classification and overview of qualitative methods
•Design qualitative research and ethical issues
•In-depth interview
•Focus groups and panels
•Participatory methods and ethnographic research
•Projective techniques and unobtrusive measure
•Mixed-methods and qualitative research in practice (NVivo)

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Group assignment: Run qualitative research on case studies provided   distil the lessons learnt in a report and present the findings  – Week 9 and 10 (60%)

Test: Multiple choice test in Week 11. One hour, 30 questions (40%)

Formative assessment methods:
Moderated group work sessions
‘Snap-tests’

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:
A mark of 50% overall.

Reassessment arrangements:
By examination in August/September.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books:
2) Specialist equipment or materials:
3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:
4) Printing and binding:
5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:
6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 24 July 2020