To inculcate and reinforce independent research skills in either Sociology, Social Policy or Criminology.

(LO1) Students will identify and independently research a topic of their choosing in the area of sociology, social policy or criminology

(LO2) Students will make use of relevant social theory and/or methods to conduct independent research

(LO3) Students will possess deeper and clearer knowledge of their chosen topic, theory and/or method

(LO4) Students will demonstrate the ability to write-up an independent, critical and/or creative piece of social research

(S1) Critical thinking and problem solving - Critical analysis

(S2) Critical thinking and problem solving - Synthesis

(S3) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Presentation skills - written

The ability to conduct independent research is a key skill for any social researcher. In this module, students will attempt to undertake independent research by choosing their own topic, theory and/or method in order to create a piece of critical and/or creative work in the field of sociology, social policy or criminology.
The module builds on constructivist learning pedagogies involving consultation sessions with the module leader. Students will engage in 2 x 30 minute consultation sessions with the module leader to determine their chosen topic, their preferred approach, feasibility of methods (where applicable) and the format of their final summative output.

Teaching Method 1 - Other
Description: Focus meetings (2x30 minutes) to support student in the choice of topic and design of research.

Self-Directed Learning Description: Individual research, planning and drafting work.