About this course: This MOOC is about demystifying research and research methods. It will outline the fundamentals of doing research, aimed primarily, but not exclusively, at the postgraduate level. It places the student experience at the centre of our endeavours by engaging learners in a range of robust and challenging discussions and exercises befitting SOAS, University of London's status as a research-intensive university and its rich research heritage. The course will appeal to those of you who require an understanding of research approaches and skills, and importantly an ability to deploy them in your studies or in your professional lives. In particular, this course will aid those of you who have to conduct research as part of your postgraduate studies but do not perhaps have access to research methods courses, or for those of you who feel you would like additional support for self-improvement. No prior knowledge or experience in research is required to take this course and as such, the course is for everyone. This MOOC draws on a wealth of existing course material developed to support research training across SOAS, University of London and particularly drawing from the Centre for International Studies and Diplomacy (CISD). In 2015, the course was nominated for the prestigious Guardian University Award for its innovative approach to online learning. Participation in or completion of this online course will not confer academic credit for University of London programmes

Created by: University of London, SOAS University of London

Taught by: Dr J. Simon Rofe, SOAS, University of London, Senior Lecturer in Diplomacy and International Studies, Global Diplomacy Programme Director, Centre for International Studies and Diplomacy,
SOAS, University of London
Taught by: Dr Yenn Lee, Doctoral Training Advisor
SOAS, University of London

Commitment	10-15 hours
Language	English, Subtitles: Arabic, Serbian, Tagalog, Spanish, Persian
How To Pass	Pass all graded assignments to complete the course.
User Ratings	4.4 stars Average User Rating 4.4See what learners said

Syllabus

WEEK 1

E-tivity 1: What Is Research and What Makes a Good Research Question?

PURPOSE: To focus upon formulating a research question. TASK: Please compose a brief question pertaining to your proposed research - whatever the subject - and post it under the 'My Project' tab in the peer review exercise below. Be brief insofar as it would fit on one metaphorical or literal 'Post-It' note. Also watch our interview videos below. RESPONSE: Having reflected on the videos, review other students' questions. Feeding back is an important part of the research process, so please spend some time providing considered feedback for three or more colleagues here. OUTCOME: You will have given considered thought to composing a research question and provided feedback to others on theirs.

6 videos, 1 reading

Reading: Read Me First
Video: How to Work with Criticism
Video: E-tivity 1 - Instructors' Commentary
Video: Rob Denny says...
Video: Sandra Halperin says...
Video: Michael Hutt says...
Video: Myrrh Domingo says...

Graded: E-tivity 1

WEEK 2

E-tivity 2: What Is a Literature Review and Why Do We Need to Do One?

PURPOSE: To familiarise yourself with the nature and benefits of conducting a literature review. TASK: Please read the following three pieces on literature review, in conjunction with the interviews below. Then post your thoughts on one of the readings to the 'My Project' tab of the peer review (200 words). RESPONSE: Provide feedback on three or more submissions by your fellow students. OUTCOME: Upon the completion of the full cycle of this e-tivity, you will be able to distinguish the qualities of a literature review and begin to reflect on the value of a literature review to your own project.

4 videos, 1 reading

Reading: E-tivity 2 - Readings
Video: E-tivity 2 - Instructors' Commentary
Video: Sandra Halperin says...
Video: Reza Gholami says...
Video: Charlotte Horlyck says...

Graded: E-tivity 2

WEEK 3

E-tivity 3: Why Are Planning and Management Skills Important for Research?

PURPOSE: To be aware of the planning and management skills that are required in undertaking critical thinking for your research. TASK: Please watch the videos below, and also read the chapter provided. In conjunction with your reflections on the learning material provided and also research planning and management in general, please post your thoughts on the chapter, in no more than 400 words, under the 'My Project' tab. RESPONSE: Provide feedback on three or more submissions by your fellow students. OUTCOME: Upon the completion of the full cycle of this e-tivity, you will have reflected on the skills required to enhance your research.

5 videos, 1 reading

Reading: E-tivity 3 - Reading
Video: E-tivity 3 - Instructors' Commentary
Video: Reza Gholami says...
Video: Sandra Halperin says...
Video: Gina Heathcote says...
Video: Michael Hutt says...

Graded: E-tivity 3

WEEK 4

E-tivity 4: How Do You Know You Have Been a Good Researcher at the End of a Project?

PURPOSE: To reflect upon the value of a good question, and provide an outline research proposal. TASK: In conjunction with our videos below, please go back to your research question proposed during E-tivity 1 and consider again whether you are still happy with it. Is the question one you are still interested in and one you think worthy of devoting your time and energy to? If so, after reflecting on your question, please compose an outline plan on how you would follow on from establishing your research question. Please submit your proposal, up to 800 words. RESPONSE: Provide feedback on three or more proposals submitted by your fellow students. OUTCOME: Upon the completion of the full cycle of this e-tivity, you will have formulated, in draft form, an overarching research question, and a plan of action to complete the research. In doing this, you will have honed your writing, research and analytical skills.

4 videos

Video: E-tivity 4 - Instructors' Commentary
Video: Gina Heathcote says...
Video: Rob Denny says...
Video: Reza Gholami says...
Peer Review: E-tivity 4

FAQs

How It Works

Coursework

Each course is like an interactive textbook, featuring pre-recorded videos, quizzes and projects.

Help from Your Peers

Connect with thousands of other learners and debate ideas, discuss course material, and get help mastering concepts.

Certificates

Earn official recognition for your work, and share your success with friends, colleagues, and employers.

Creators

University of London

The University of London is a federal University which includes 17 world leading Colleges. Our International Programmes were founded in 1858 and have enriched the lives of thousands of students, delivering high quality University of London degrees wherever our students are across the globe. Our alumni include 7 Nobel Prize winners. Today, we are a global leader in distance and flexible study, offering degree programmes to over 50,000 students in over 180 countries. To find out more about studying for one of our degrees where you are, search for 'London International'.

SOAS University of London

Ratings and Reviews

Rated 4.4 out of 5 of 763 ratings

I enjoyed this course and look forward to taking more when offered by the University of London!

Great course with thought provoking discussions which give new meaning to academic research and food for thought.

Very good course that summarizes what a new researcher especially needs to know as you enter the world of research. This course helped to build my confidence, and I am hoping to embark on a research program soon. Thanks.

Was really helpful for me especially in peer reviewing others works. Enables us to indirectly or directly share ideas. I found the week on the importance of literature review most helpful for me as this is the area if done properly will generate proper and relevant ideas of your research.

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Understanding Research Methods

Understanding Research Methods

Understanding Research Methods