This module introduces students to some of the fundamental research methods used in planning and human geography. All academics and policy makers use research methods as the practical tools used to answer questions about society and the places where people live and work In a nutshell, methods connect theory with practice and generate the data we need to understand the world around us.In this module we being by looking at some specialist methods used by geographers and planners – GIS and descriptive statistics that allows us to map data and understand in a very general sense how different social, economic and cultural phenomena vary across space and at different geographical scales; and interviews, images and media that allow us to present a much richer, deeper understanding  of how people construct and interact in space and place    

1. to understand how and why certain methodologies are chosen for research projects
2. to know the key strengths and weaknesses of key quantitative and qualitative methods
3. to be able to conduct research using archives, images and media
4. to be able to design, conduct, and analyse a qualitative interview
5. to understand survey design, introductory statistics and GIS
6. to identify, access and use secondary data to address planning and geographic issues
7. to apply GIS mapping and statistical analysis to project work
8. to critically evaluate the sorts of knowledge required to answer research questions

The module will be delivered through a combination of lectures, guided workshops, surgeries, on-line sessions and in-class seminars. The lectures will provide students with the theory, concepts, examples and applications of the methods used in geography and planning research. The workshops will allow the students to practice the methods using real world data and applications. The in-class seminars will allow students to debate and discuss the methods and prepare for the assessments. The surgeries and on-line sessions will provide students with additional help and feedback

Problem solving skills

Communication, interview, and writing skills, including report writing

Working in small groups

Undertaking Interviewing and  focus groups

Spatial analysis and handling of geographical data

Basic statistical analysis and Mapping skills

Basic GIS skills

Type of assessment

%

Contribution

Title

Duration
(if applicable)

Approx. date of Assessment

Mapping Census Data exercise

15%

A cartographically designed map of census data for a chosen Local Authority plus a short discussion (200 word)

200 words

Autumn

GIS and statistical analysis project

35%

An individual project involving mapping, GIS and descriptive statistical analysis of data

1000 word plus maps, tables and statistical output

Autumn

Coursework on Qualitative Methods

50%

Individual essay based on data collected during group work

2000 word

Spring

The opportunity for reassessment in this module

Students are permitted to be reassessed in a module which they have failed, in line with the course regulations. The reassessment will usually take place during the summer.

This module begins by introducing the types of research planners and geographers are involved in within the School. It outlines the range of research approaches undertaken, and the appropriate methodologies used to put them into practice. The autumn portion of this module focuses on descriptive statistics and basic GIS mapping applied to the analysis of UK statistical data.  Computer workshops via Learning Central resources on using appropriate statistical and GIS software are supplemented by light-touch introductory lectures and surgeries.  The module then introduces in the spring semester a range of key qualitative methods, including images, archives, use of the media, and interviews.

Clifford, N. and Valentine, G. (eds.) (2010) Key Methods in Geography, London: Sage.

Denzin, N. and Lincoln, Y. (eds.) (2011) The Handbook of Qualitative Research, London: Sage.

Longley, P., Goodchild,M.F,, Maguire, D.J., and Rhind, D.W. (eds.) (2005) Geographical Information Systems and Science, 2^nd edition, New York and Chichester: John Wiley&Sons.

May, T. (1998) Social Research: Issues, Methods and Process, 2^nd edition, Open University Press.

Morgan, D.L. (1997) Focus Groups as Qualitative Research, London: Sage.

Salkind, N. J. (2004). Statistics for People Who (Think They) Hate Statistics. London: Sage.

Bryman, A. (2012) Social Research Methods, Oxford University Press

de Vaus D.A. (1991) Surveys in Social Research, London: Allen and Unwin.

Walliman, N. (2001) Your Research Project: A Step by Step Guide for The First Time Researcher, London: Sage