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James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2024

For subject information from 2025 and onwards, please visit the new JCU Course and Subject Handbook website.

WS2009 - Foundations of Social Work Research

Credit points:03
Year:2024
Student Contribution Band:Band 4
Prerequisites:WS1006 OR WS1005
Administered by:College of Arts, Society & Education

Subject Description

    This subject focusses on the various methods utilised in data gathering and analysis in social research. It introduces students to the different concepts, theories, ideas, and practices involved in social research methodology. Specifically, the subject will explore the foundations of qualitative and quantitative research and critically examine the methods of each, providing a strong understanding of a range of approaches to social research. From this baseline, students are well-equipped to engage with research and data to inform evidence-based practice for their future careers.

Learning Outcomes

  • identify theoretical, political, and ethical issues associated with social research
  • apply the key principles of qualitative and quantitative research, data and analysis
  • differentiate between the requirements and implementation of various approaches to social research

Subject Assessment

  • Written > Test/Quiz 1 - (30%) - Individual
  • Written > Essay (including multi-draft) 1 - (40%) - Individual
  • Written > Test/Quiz 2 - (30%) - Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  SY2005

Availabilities

Cairns Nguma-bada, Study Period 1, Internal

Census date:Thursday, 21 Mar 2024
Study Period Dates:Monday, 19 Feb 2024 to Friday, 14 Jun 2024
Coordinator(s):
Assoc. Professor Nick Osbaldiston
Workload expectations:The student workload for this 3 credit point subject is approximately 130 hours.
  • 18 Hours - Workshops
  • 13 Hours - Online activity

Townsville Bebegu Yumba, Study Period 1, External

Census date:Thursday, 21 Mar 2024
Study Period Dates:Monday, 19 Feb 2024 to Friday, 14 Jun 2024
Coordinator(s):
Assoc. Professor Nick Osbaldiston
Workload expectations:The student workload for this 3 credit point subject is approximately 130 hours.
  • 13 Hours - Online activity
  • 18 Hours - Online Workshops
Method of delivery:WWW - LearnJCU