Applied Social Research (MRes) Postgraduate Diploma, MRes

Modules
Core modules
ASRP001: The Nature of Social Enquiry SCQF level 11, 20 credits
This module aims to introduce students to the theoretical foundations that underpin social scientific research and analysis. The module begins by examining the main themes and issues within the philosophy of science and social science and then investigates different classical and modern theoretical perspectives for exploring the social world.
ASRP002: Research Design and Process SCQF level 11, 20 credits
The module takes students through the process of designing a research project. It enables them to think up an interesting research idea, to carry out a literature review, identify appropriate theoretical frameworks, refine the research question and then work out which methods to use. It introduces students to some of the more common research strategies and methods. It invites reflection on the ethics and politics of the research process, and encourages students to think systematically about dissemination of findings, knowledge exchange and research impact. The assessment for the module reinforces what has been learned: it involves thinking up a research topic, refining it into some researchable questions and then writing a proposal for funding.
ASRP003 Introduction to IT and Library Services No credits given
The module is designed to make you aware of resources concerning Information Technology and Library Services; make you comfortable in the application of certain core IT and Library skills and aware of how to go about extending your knowledge of and confidence in further IT applications and Library Services.
ASRP004: Quantitative Data Analysis SCQF level 11, 20 credits
The module introduces quantitative data analysis, covering a selection of those statistical techniques which are most commonly employed in social science research. It also covers practical training in the application of quantitative methods to social science data. The emphasis will be on the analysis of data collected in social surveys, particularly the secondary analysis of large scale surveys.
ASRP005 Qualitative Data Analysis SCQF level 11, 20 credits
This module introduces students to qualitative data analysis. It aims to provide them with understanding and experience of conducting the analysis of qualitative data (including visual data), as well as a critical awareness of the role of computer assisted qualitative data analysis software (CAQDAS). Students will demonstrate the ability to conduct secondary analysis on a qualitative dataset and a critical appreciation of the impact of analysing secondary as well as primary data.
ASRP010 Dissertation SCQF level 11, 60 credits
This module aims to provide students who have completed the Diploma in Applied Social Research programme the opportunity to carry out a major social science research project. With supervision, students are encouraged to use and develop their accumulated research skills and their knowledge of theoretical and methodological work in conducting their own research project. By the end of the module, students will produce a coherent, well-argued dissertation based on their original piece of social science research.
Optional modules
ASRP006 Comparative Social Research SCQF level 11, 20 credits
This module aims to introduce students to comparative social research methods and to enable students to develop a critical awareness of key methodological considerations throughout the research process.
CRMP010 Criminological Perspectives SCQF level 11, 20 credits
This module aims to introduce students to the theoretical foundations that underpin criminological research and analysis. As part of the student’s work in preparation for the criminology dissertation, the module begins by examining the epistemological contexts of the main theories within criminology and proceeds throughout the course to investigate through a broad range of classical and modern criminological texts, the historical context of the subject area as a whole.
EDRP001 Nature of Educational Enquiry SCQF level 11, 20 credits
Drawing upon specific research projects and debates, this module will introduce you to the differing ways of conceptualising the purposes of education, and the theories informing knowledge claims in research. It will enable you to engage with the different traditions of ideas informing research into education, and their strengths and weaknesses. The module therefore involves a critical examination of different approaches to and traditions in educational research and their underlying assumptions.
GNDPP02 Feminist Research SCQF level 11, 20 credits
The module explores the principles and practicalities of feminist research and the conditions in which it is conducted inside and outside of universities. We will consider what makes research "feminist" in a variety of contexts, and will explore key issues such as objectivity, intersectionality, power, emotion, writing practices and who/what feminist research is (can be, should be) for.
MPPPP01 How Does the Policy Process Work? SCQF level 11, 20 credits
The aim of the module is to enhance understanding, in considerable depth, the relationship between policymaking and policy influencing bodies at multiple levels (for example, local, Scottish, UK, EU, and global). We explore topics such as: what policy is and how it is made, multilevel policymaking, policy networks and governance, power and ideas, socioeconomic factors and the role of ‘events’.
SSSP001 Social Network Analysis SCQF level 11, 20 credits
This module examines both the theory and methods of social network analysis (SNA). Students will explore social capital, the consequences of network positions and the increasing awareness of networks. A range of SNA methodologies are covered, including centrality measures, quadratic assignment procedure regression and E-I index. Students will learn various specialist software packages, including UCInet and Pajek.
ASRP007 Policy Analysis and Evaluation Research SCQF level 11, 20 credits
This module explores the relationship between policy and research. It aims to equip students with the intellectual and practical tools needed to analyse policy developments, evaluate evidence of ‘what works’, and appreciate the different approaches to evaluation.
ASRP026 Advanced Quantitative Methods SCQF level 11, 20 credits
This module provides training in the application of methods of quantitative data analysis that are relatively advanced in character. Themes covered include advanced issues in regression models; models for categorical outcomes; multilevel models; the analysis of longitudinal data; and the analysis of multi-process systems.
CRMP013 Criminalisation, Social Control and Human Rights SCQF level 11, 20 credits
This module explores the relationship between human rights and the changing shape of criminal law that has come about through the emerging technologies of security post 9/11 examining the political and structural conditions which allow rights-discourses to be institutionalized and which also allow violations of rights to occur.
CRMP020 Research Methods in Criminology and Socio-Legal Studies SCQF level 11, 20 credits
The module introduces students to the specific challenges involved in conducting research within the main criminal justice agencies, examines key data sources used in criminological and socio-legal research (including the use of law library resources) and provides an understanding of the various ways in which criminological research relates to the development of policy.
EDRP002 Data Collection and Analysis SCQF level 11, 20 credits
Drawing upon specific research projects and debates, this module will introduce students to the differing ways of conceptualising the purposes of education, and the theories informing knowledge claims in research. It will enable students to engage with the different traditions of ideas informing research into education, and their strengths and weaknesses. The module therefore involves a critical examination of different approaches to and traditions in educational research and their underlying assumptions.
MPPPP04 Policymaking: Theories and Approaches SCQF level 11, 20 credits
The module provides a comprehensive analysis of policymaking theories and approaches, comparing political science with other disciplines, including economics, communication, psychology, management and social marketing.
SSSP005 Advanced Data Management SCQF level 11, 10 credits
Students will learn how to conduct analyses with complex data and how to produce high quality syntax files which facilitate replication by other researchers. A range of data management, and variable construction, techniques will be developed. Students will undertake an assignment testing their ability to produce simple transcriptions of undertaking advanced analysis of complex data.
SSSP007 Using Big Data in Social Research SCQF level 11, 10 credits
This module concerns the use of big data as a social science methodology. Students will learn the differences between ‘big data’ and ‘big good data’ and learn to critically engage with the potential for data to provide robust evidence. Training will be provided in analysing social media data, particularly Twitter, through a range of software including R and NodeXL.
TESP012 Technologies in the 21st Century Classroom SCQF level 11, 20 credits
Provides an opportunity for students to create multimedia materials using authoring programs for language teaching and learning.