This course introduces the major qualitative research methods as they are applied across the social sciences, especially human geography. Data collection methods covered include interviewing, oral histories, participant observation, textual analysis, and focus groups. Data analysis methods are also presented, and applied in conjunction with using N*Vivo qualitative data analysis software. In this course students will develop an appreciation of the challenges and opportunities of taking a qualitative approach to research on sustainability issues. The course introduces some of the ethical and cross-cultural concerns researchers encounter, and gain the skills to critically evaluate qualitative research.
Honours Pathway Option
Subject to the approval of the course convenor; HPO students will be required to demonstrate greater depth of understanding of the content of the course. HPO students will undertake a program of advanced reading and will be required to prepare and facilitate a discussion session (like a tutorial) (equivalent to a minimum of 20% of overall assessment). All other assessment requirements remain the same.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
- identify and critically evaluate qualitative research methods from literature
- demonstrate an understanding of the methodological challenges posed by qualitative research in the context of sustainability
- demonstrate an ability to apply conceptual and practical tools to the development of qualitative research projects in the context of sustainability
- understand and demonstrate the application of reflexive principles to their learning
Other Information
If you do not meet the requisites for this course, it may be possible to receive a permission code. If you are prompted for a permission code on ISIS, please request one online via the following form.
Indicative Assessment
- Keeping and submitting a day-by-day learning journal, assessed twice in the semester (25) [LO 4]
- Creating and reporting on a self-directed field trip where students apply two qualitative research methods of their choice (10) [LO 3]
- Designing and writing a qualitative research project proposal on a sustainability-related subject of their choice, 2000 words (35) [LO 2,3]
- Take-home exam - Critical assessment of a qualitative research project report (30) [LO 1,2]
The ANU uses Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. While the use of Turnitin is not mandatory, the ANU highly recommends Turnitin is used by both teaching staff and students. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website.
Workload
The expected workload will consist of approximately 130 hours throughout the session including:
- 70 hours of contact delivered intensively over 10 weekdays comprising: lectures, practicals and field excursions;
- 60 hours of independent student research, reading and writing.
Students are expected to actively participate and contribute towards discussions.
Inherent Requirements
To be determined
Requisite and Incompatibility
Prescribed Texts
Hay, I. (2010) Qualitative Research Methods in Human Geography (3rd ed.), Oxford University Press, South Melbourne.Assumed Knowledge
Recommended ENVS1003Areas of Interest
- Forestry
- Geography
- Human Ecology
- Interdisciplinary Studies - Sustainability
- Development Studies
- Environmental Studies
- Human Sciences
- Policy Studies
- Population Studies
Fees
Tuition fees are for the academic year indicated at the top of the page.
Commonwealth Support (CSP) Students
If you have been offered a Commonwealth supported place, your fees are set by the Australian Government for each course. At ANU 1 EFTSL is 48 units (normally 8 x 6-unit courses). More information about your student contribution amount for each course at Fees.
- Student Contribution Band:
- 2
- Unit value:
- 6 units
If you are a domestic graduate coursework student with a Domestic Tuition Fee (DTF) place or international student you will be required to pay course tuition fees (see below). Course tuition fees are indexed annually. Further information for domestic and international students about tuition and other fees can be found at Fees.
Where there is a unit range displayed for this course, not all unit options below may be available.
| Units | EFTSL |
|---|---|
| 6.00 | 0.12500 |
Course fees
- Domestic fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2023 | $4560 |
- International fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2023 | $6180 |
Offerings, Dates and Class Summary Links
ANU utilises MyTimetable to enable students to view the timetable for their enrolled courses, browse, then self-allocate to small teaching activities / tutorials so they can better plan their time. Find out more on the Timetable webpage.
