University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 20

ECTS credits : 10

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: 1

Availability restrictions: Not automatically available to General Degree students

Planned timetable: Lectures - 1.00 pm - 3.00 pm Tue Practicals - 3.00 pm - 5.00 pm Tue

Students taking this module will learn some of the core research skills necessary to be a professional quantitative social science researcher and then to carry out a typical consulting project. It will allow them to explore a substantive policy issue, carry out their own quantitative research and then make recommendations based on these findings. They will be presented with a 'real world' scenario and be expected to take on the role of a researcher who is advising policy makers; in simulations of various policy forums, they will then learn how to defend their recommendations and advice. They will first be taught the relevant quantitative research skills and introduced to potentially useful research resources. They will then be expected to construct their own research strategy, carry out the necessary research and present this in various formats, working independently of the teaching staff.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass SG3201 or pass SG3202 or pass SG3203 or pass SG3204

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2-hour lectures, 2-hour seminars, 1-hour practical classes each week for 7 weeks, and occasional tutorials.

Scheduled learning hours: 38

Guided independent study hours: 162

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Practical Examination = 13%, Coursework = 87%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 0%
Practical examinations : 13%
Coursework: 87%

Re-assessment: Coursework project = 100%

Personnel

Module teaching staff: Team taught