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GG3207   Qualitative Methods for Human Geographers

Academic year(s): 2023-2024

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 10

ECTS credits : 5

Level : SCQF level 9

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: Semester 1: 12pm-2pm

This module will focus on the design and conduct of qualitative research. It will explore the epistemological foundations on which different strands of qualitative research rest, introduce you to a range of techniques for collecting qualitative data, and help you consider methodological questions related to the conduct of qualitative research. The unit will encourage critical thinking about what constitutes the field and data, as well as about issues of ethics, positionality, voice, representation, and the hermeneutic location of records and data.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass GG2012

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2hr lecture (x 7 weeks)

Scheduled learning hours: 30

Guided independent study hours: 70

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%

As defined by QAA
Coursework: 100%

Re-assessment: Coursework = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr A Boussalem
Module teaching staff: Dr Charlotte Lee
Module coordinator email ab563@st-andrews.ac.uk

Intended learning outcomes

  • Provide students with a critical appreciation of the epistemological and theoretical foundations of qualitative research design, methodology, techniques and ethics
  • Students will gain an understanding of the type of questions appropriate to qualitative investigation and of how to select methods, and collect data capable of addressing them
  • Students will learn a range of qualitative techniques & approaches
  • Students will have an opportunity to gain field experience and a practical and embodied understanding of the use of qualitative methods
  • Students will leave this module able to conceive and execute qualitative research projects that are innovative, highly independent, structured around informed theoretical positions/methodological procedures, critically engaged with the appropriate literature