The early part of the course deals with the theory of social enquiry however the main content of the course is a practical approach to the conduct of social enquiry. This is done in two segments: quantitative and qualitative research methods.

The quantitative segment deals with the development of variables required to test hypotheses (dependent variables, independent variables and control variables) and how the required information can be obtained in the form of a survey questionnaire. Question types, formats and wording are considered. The various modes of survey are discussed (face-to-face, telephone, mail, internet, captured groups) and when and how each might be employed. The quantitative component ends with basic lectures on drawing a sample and carrying out the fieldwork (interviewing). The qualitative segment of the course provides a broad overview of the theory of qualitative research and basic skills in the application of these methods in social sciences. Strong emphasis is given to practical exercises in the collection, analysis and reporting of qualitative data including participant observation, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions.

For further information, see http://adsri.anu.edu.au/study/Courses/DEMO8061/index.php
 

For Prof McDonald’s lectures (T/P 1):

Assessment will be based on one major assignment divided into two parts. For the assignment, students will prepare a quantitative survey design, including the questionnaire. The topic is the student’s own choice but must be agreed in advance with Professor McDonald. Work on the assignment will proceed during the lectures and students will meet with Professor McDonald to discuss their projects with the aim of improving the quality of the final product. Grades are based on the final product and the student’s capacity to incorporate advice given.

Assignment Part 1 (30%)

Statement of the issue or problem, its importance and what we know about it so far. Your theory about the issue or how you intend to derive a theory. The hypotheses that you intend to test, dependent variables, independent variables, controls, the study design, the unit(s) of analysis.

Assignment Part 2 (70%)

Implementation. Mode of data collection and why this method is preferred (time, cost, accessibility of respondents, accuracy), the source of respondents (sample frame) and a description of the sample design. Interviewing procedures. Who are the interviewers, how you would recruit them, training, how they would do their job, supervision. The questionnaire. Content is the key. It must be clear that the questionnaire actually gathers the information required to test the specified hypotheses and to apply appropriate controls in the analysis (length as required).

For Dr Utomo’s Lectures (T/P 2)

Participation in class discussion (10%)

Reading materials will be provided. Students are expected to read the articles provided prior to class as well as participate actively in class discussion. After each project has been conducted, a class discussion will be held relating to the different field experiences or new strategies in conducting observation, interviews, and focus group discussions that students might have encountered.

Project assignment I: Observation (20%)

The task of this project is to give students experience in observing and recording.  In conducting an observation of a chosen event, students will work in pairs, but each should keep separate recording notes and an individual observation report for individual assessment.
Project assignment II: In-depth Interview (30%)

Each student should choose a topic and develop an interview schedule.  Evaluation will be based on a written report of the interview including: how the student conducted the interview, notes taken during the interview and a ten-minute written transcription of the interview.

Project assignment III: Focus Group Discussion (40%)

The class will be divided into groups. Each group containing three or four students would be asked to choose a topic for the FGD, develop the FGD guidelines and conduct the FGD. Assessment will be based on a group report and an individual report. The group is responsible to write a report on the FGD guidelines, observation of the FGD setting, recruitment of the FGD participants, five minutes of transcribing and recording the demographic characteristics of the participants. Each student is responsible to write an analysis report of the FGD.