013952 Research Perspectives

Description

The purpose of this subject is to develop research-literate students who understand research practices and processes, are critical readers of research, and who are able to develop ideas about potential research problems and applications of research in their field of practice. The subject explores how research texts are constructed by assumptions about knowledge, values and the nature of reality, and through research activities and practices which produce accounts of and evidence for innovation. The subject engages with a series of research perspectives, exploring key concepts, case studies and developing research literacy skills. The subject thereby encourages students to explore and critically reflect on their own perspectives on knowledge.

This subject introduces research in education through the critique of carefully selected research texts drawn from different research traditions and perspectives. Participants draw on their own experience of professional practice to inform their critical reading of research texts and to extend their understanding of the diversity of contemporary approaches to research.

The subject aims to equip students with skills and knowledge that are relevant both to students who intend to go on to develop and implement research projects themselves (particularly those intending to undertake 013112 Research Design), and those who engage with research at the cutting edge of their field in order to inform the development of policy and practice.