GEOG 7009 - Research Methods

North Terrace Campus - Semester 1 - 2023

The aim of this course is to develop students' knowledge and understanding of the role and conduct of quantitative and qualitative research methods in planning [and urban design]. Intellectual and methodological debates will be discussed in order to assist students to develop informed opinions and a critical appreciation for other's research. The imperative for ethical research practice will be presented. The course equips students with the skills to review and conduct methodologically sound research as a part of their professional work. Students develop the skills to recognise and reflect on the strengths and limitations of different research methodologies, understand the links between theory and practice, critically assess research, and address ethical and practical issues. The course takes a step-by-step approach to the design and implementation of quantitative and qualitative techniques including case study and precedent studies, surveys, interviews, focus groups, participant observation, textual and media analysis. How to manage and analyse data (including computer assisted), and how to write up and present findings are core components of this course. Students will be equipped with the knowledge and ability to undertake original research projects and develop a set of transferable workplace skills.

  • General Course Information
    Course Details
    Course Code GEOG 7009
    Course Research Methods
    Coordinating Unit Geography, Environment and Population
    Term Semester 1
    Level Postgraduate Coursework
    Location/s North Terrace Campus
    Units 3
    Contact Up to 3 hours per week
    Available for Study Abroad and Exchange Y
    Incompatible GEST 5001, GEST 5010, GEOG 5001, GEOG 5010
    Restrictions Available to MPlan, MPlan(UrbDes) students only
    Assessment Literature review (30%), research proposal (30%), 1000 word minor essay (10%), in-class journal and verbals (30%)
    Course Staff

    Course Coordinator: Dr George Tan

    Course Timetable

    The full timetable of all activities for this course can be accessed from Course Planner.

  • Learning Outcomes
    Course Learning Outcomes
    At the end of this course students should be able to:
    1 To develop knowledge and understanding of content and techniques of research that meets international standards
    2 To locate, analyse and synthesis information about the diversity of research approaches
    3 Develop ability to apply effective, creative and innovative solutions to research problems
    4 Via use of problem solving and critical thinking exercises in research case studies, develop teamwork, and interpersonal skills in negotiating research programs
    5 To critically evaluate the efficacy of virtual means of delivering or developing research strategies
    6 To encourage and develop skills that will enhance the fulfilment of ongoing and continuous learning and intellectual curiosity via independent learning exercises
    7 To demonstrate, by use of role model examples, how research can help support leadership functions within community
    8 Develop understanding of cross cultural contexts and nuances/implications of cross cultural research
    University Graduate Attributes

    This course will provide students with an opportunity to develop the Graduate Attribute(s) specified below:

    University Graduate Attribute Course Learning Outcome(s)

    Attribute 1: Deep discipline knowledge and intellectual breadth

    Graduates have comprehensive knowledge and understanding of their subject area, the ability to engage with different traditions of thought, and the ability to apply their knowledge in practice including in multi-disciplinary or multi-professional contexts.

    1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8,

    Attribute 2: Creative and critical thinking, and problem solving

    Graduates are effective problems-solvers, able to apply critical, creative and evidence-based thinking to conceive innovative responses to future challenges.

    1, 2, 3,4 5, 6, 7, 8

    Attribute 3: Teamwork and communication skills

    Graduates convey ideas and information effectively to a range of audiences for a variety of purposes and contribute in a positive and collaborative manner to achieving common goals.

    1, 23, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

    Attribute 4: Professionalism and leadership readiness

    Graduates engage in professional behaviour and have the potential to be entrepreneurial and take leadership roles in their chosen occupations or careers and communities.

    4, 7,8

    Attribute 5: Intercultural and ethical competency

    Graduates are responsible and effective global citizens whose personal values and practices are consistent with their roles as responsible members of society.

    1, 23, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

    Attribute 6: Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural competency

    Graduates have an understanding of, and respect for, Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander values, culture and knowledge.

    6, 7, 8

    Attribute 7: Digital capabilities

    Graduates are well prepared for living, learning and working in a digital society.

    1, 3, 4, 5

    Attribute 8: Self-awareness and emotional intelligence

    Graduates are self-aware and reflective; they are flexible and resilient and have the capacity to accept and give constructive feedback; they act with integrity and take responsibility for their actions.

    2, 3, 4, 5
  • Learning Resources
    Required Resources
    Supplied via MYUNI but students will be expected to do independent research work also
  • Learning & Teaching Activities
    Learning & Teaching Modes
    Three hour workshop delivered via seminar small group activites and IT engagement
    Workload

    The information below is provided as a guide to assist students in engaging appropriately with the course requirements.

    3 hours of classes per week 36 hours per semester
    4 hours readings and preparation per wee 48 hours per semester
    6 hours assignment preparation per week 72 hours per semester
    Total workload 156 hours per semester
    Learning Activities Summary
    Course overview: What is research?
    Working out your research problem – what needs to be included in a research proposal?
    Literature reviews and data base searches


    Research Ethics and Engaging Cultures
    Writing an ethics application
    Theoretical Approaches


    Qualitative Methods 
    Quantitative Methods 

    Research Analysis
    Online methods: Using survey monkey
    Using endnote

    How to write up a research project (eg. Dissertation)


  • Assessment

    The University's policy on Assessment for Coursework Programs is based on the following four principles:

    1. Assessment must encourage and reinforce learning.
    2. Assessment must enable robust and fair judgements about student performance.
    3. Assessment practices must be fair and equitable to students and give them the opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned.
    4. Assessment must maintain academic standards.

    Assessment Summary
    Students will be required to undertake the following:
    Assessment Task Task Type Weighting % Course Learning Outcome(s)
    Quantitative and Qualitative - group project Summative 30% 1,2,3,4,7,8
    Course Journal Summative 30% 1,2,6
    The Research Proposal Summative 30% 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8
    Attendance Summative 10%
    Assessment Detail
    This information will be provided in the course profile in the MYUI web site for this course
    Submission

    No information currently available.

    Course Grading

    Grades for your performance in this course will be awarded in accordance with the following scheme:

    M10 (Coursework Mark Scheme)
    Grade Mark Description
    FNS   Fail No Submission
    F 1-49 Fail
    P 50-64 Pass
    C 65-74 Credit
    D 75-84 Distinction
    HD 85-100 High Distinction
    CN   Continuing
    NFE   No Formal Examination
    RP   Result Pending

    Further details of the grades/results can be obtained from Examinations.

    Grade Descriptors are available which provide a general guide to the standard of work that is expected at each grade level. More information at Assessment for Coursework Programs.

    Final results for this course will be made available through Access Adelaide.

  • Student Feedback

    The University places a high priority on approaches to learning and teaching that enhance the student experience. Feedback is sought from students in a variety of ways including on-going engagement with staff, the use of online discussion boards and the use of Student Experience of Learning and Teaching (SELT) surveys as well as GOS surveys and Program reviews.

    SELTs are an important source of information to inform individual teaching practice, decisions about teaching duties, and course and program curriculum design. They enable the University to assess how effectively its learning environments and teaching practices facilitate student engagement and learning outcomes. Under the current SELT Policy (http://www.adelaide.edu.au/policies/101/) course SELTs are mandated and must be conducted at the conclusion of each term/semester/trimester for every course offering. Feedback on issues raised through course SELT surveys is made available to enrolled students through various resources (e.g. MyUni). In addition aggregated course SELT data is available.

  • Student Support
  • Policies & Guidelines
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