Module: EDU4007-20 Introduction to Education Research

Level: 4

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Eleanor West

Module Tutor Contact Details: e.west@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

Education research can help us to think differently about what we do in education and why we do it. Building on the core questions asked in EDU4000-20, this module will require you to consider ways in which educational research can help us change education for the better. From national policy contexts to decisions made about individual interventions in educational settings, educationalists need to promote good educational judgements based on trustworthy evidence. This module will help you to develop:

A broad and balanced knowledge and understanding of the principal features of research methods in a wide range of educational contexts;

An ability to understand the essential concepts in research methods and different research approaches as an educational researcher;

A range of qualities that enable you to develop and describe your own educational interests using the research methods concepts introduced within this module

2.Outline syllabus

Key themes:

● What is educational research?

● Approaches to educational research

● Methodological issues

● Literature reviews

● Theory and practice

3.Teaching and learning activities

Teaching and learning will be through lectures, online material (video lectures, formative assessments, asynchronous learning opportunities), and small group/ individual tutorial support. Lectures and online materials will be used to introduce and explain key concepts related to relevant research methods. Online collaboration and tutor support will be used for social and group learning. Tutorials will be provided for you to discuss your personal learning developments and formative assignment feedback.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Online Tasks

• % Weighting: 30%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Research evaluation of a school based research project (2500 words)

• % Weighting: 70%