Qualitative Research Methods (947C8)
Qualitative Research Methods
Module 947C8
Module details for 2025/26.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 7 (Masters)
Full Module Description
Qualitative research methods are used across a wide range of psychology subdisciplines – social, health, medical, clinical, developmental – and to address a variety of topics. This module provides training and hands-on experience of using qualitative research methods in order to equip advanced students to use these approaches with confidence. The module covers the main qualitative data-gathering approaches (including interviews, focus group discussions and secondary data gathering) and a spectrum of methods of qualitative analysis (from thematic analysis to forms of discourse analysis). Strengths and weaknesses and the practical considerations for different approaches for particular topics are covered, as well as issues of quality in qualitative research and how to write up a qualitative research study.
Module Outline
Qualitative research methods are used across a wide range of psychology subdisciplines – social, health, medical, clinical, developmental – and to address a variety of topics. This module provides training and hands-on experience of using qualitative research methods in order to equip advanced students to use these approaches with confidence. The module covers the main qualitative data-gathering approaches (including interviews, focus group discussions and secondary data gathering) and a spectrum of methods of qualitative analysis (from thematic analysis to forms of discourse analysis). Strengths and weaknesses and the practical considerations for different approaches for particular topics are covered, as well as issues of quality in qualitative research and how to write up a qualitative research study.
Module learning outcomes
Systematically understand the strengths and weaknesses of different qualitative research methods in psychology.
Demonstrate understanding of established techniques used in both data collection and analysis of qualitative research.
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 40.00% | |
| Coursework components. Weighted as shown below. | ||
| Report | T1 Week 8 | 100.00% |
| Report (2500 words) | Semester 1 Assessment Week 2 Wed 16:00 | 60.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 11111111111 |
| Autumn Semester | Workshop | 2 hours | 01111111110 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Dr Maria Fernandes-Jesus
Convenor, Assess convenor
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