090014 Fundamentals of Qualitative Research
Warning: The information on this page is indicative. The subject outline for a
particular session, location and mode of offering is the authoritative source
of all information about the subject for that offering. Required texts, recommended texts and references in particular are likely to change. Students will be provided with a subject outline once they enrol in the subject.
Subject handbook information prior to 2025 is available in the Archives.
Credit points: 3 cp
Subject level:
Postgraduate
Result type: Grade and marksRequisite(s): 090012c Fundamentals of Biostatistics
The lower case 'c' after the subject code indicates that the subject is a corequisite. See definitions for details.
These requisites may not apply to students in certain courses. See access conditions.
Description
This subject provides a practical introduction to qualitative research in health. Students build skills and knowledge concerning the role and application of qualitative research in health and the relationship between qualitative research questions, theoretical perspectives, methodological approaches, data collection and analysis. Students have the opportunity to apply their learning by undertaking qualitative data collection, data analysis, reporting the subsequent findings from this fieldwork and reflecting upon their perceptions/experiences of the challenges and opportunities involved in such fieldwork.
Subject learning objectives (SLOs)
| A. | Justify the selection of a theoretical position, qualitative data collection tool/s and a method of analyzing data for a proposed study that is aligned with an appropriate research question |
|---|---|
| B. | Identify a theoretical position in qualitative health research |
| C. | Discuss practical and ethical issues in relation to non-probability sampling and participant recruitment, particularly in the context of research with vulnerable populations |
| D. | Demonstrate data analysis according to a selected approach |
| E. | Demonstrate rigor, trustworthiness and critical reflexivity |
| F. | Apply quality reporting criteria for qualitative research |
Course intended learning outcomes (CILOs)
This subject also contributes specifically to the following graduate attributes:
- Demonstrate reflective critical thinking to enable critical appraisal of current practice, policy and research with the aim to enhance health care and healthcare outcomes, and transform health (1.0)
- Apply research methods to a variety of public health problems (1.2)
- Are socially, culturally and ethically accountable when engaging with individuals, families, interdisciplinary teams, communities, organisations and jurisdictions (3.0)
Teaching and learning strategies
This subject is delivered through weekly online learning activities distributed over a period of six weeks. There is an expectation that students complete all online activities to get the most out of the subject. Students will be provided with engaging learning activities to deepen their understanding of qualitative research approaches, concepts and processes and their application relevant to health care and public health. Online activities will offer students with the opportunity to gain knowledge using a range of material, including case studies, and apply their knowledge to real-world contemporary public health issues. Students are expected to work independently and to engage with other students and teachers online through discussion forums and other interactive activities such as Zoom meetings. During Zoom meetings students will engage in discussions to analyse, reflect and develop ideas to address contemporary public health issues using qualitative research methods and theory.
Assessments are designed to complement the learning by providing students with the opportunity to practically apply and track their understanding of fundamental concepts and techniques relevant to qualitative research enquiry. Students will receive feedback from teaching staff in online discussion and activities and on assessment tasks.
Content (topics)
- Theoretical perspectives in qualitative health research
- Planning and designing a qualitative health study
- Designing and conducting qualitative data collection methods
- Accessing vulnerable, marginalised and underserved populations & gathering data on sensitive issues
- Key concepts in qualitative research: rigour, reflexivity and transferability
- Analysing qualitative data
- Appraising qualitative research reporting
Assessment
Assessment task 1: Online Quizzes
| Intent: | The purpose of this assessment item is to determine how well students understand fundamental qualitative research approaches and concepts and to assess the students’ ability to interpret core features, benefits and possible contributions of qualitative enquiry and its use in public health research. |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses subject learning objective(s): A, B and C This assessment task contributes to the development of graduate attribute(s): 1.0, 1.2 and 3.0 |
| Weight: | 40% |
| Length: | 10 multiple choice questions in 30 minutes. |
Assessment task 2: Fieldwork Report
| Intent: | This assessment allows students to undertake fieldwork, analyse data and report the subsequent findings – this assessment item determines how well the students can apply their qualitative research knowledge to collect and analyse ‘real world’ qualitative data. |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses subject learning objective(s): D, E and F This assessment task contributes to the development of graduate attribute(s): 1.0 and 1.2 |
| Weight: | 60% |
| Length: | 1,500 words +/- 10% |
Required texts
Hansen E. (2006). Successful Qualitative Health Research: A Practical Introduction. Sydney: Allen and Unwin.
An electronic copy of the book is available as an e-book at UTS Library: https://search.lib.uts.edu.au/permalink/61UTS_INST/19joism/alma991006898769105671
Other resources
UTS Student Centre
Building 10
Monday to Friday: 9am - 5pm
Tel: 1300 ASK UTS (1300 275 887)
Details for student centres: www.uts.edu.au/current-students/contacts/general-contacts
For other resources/ information refer to the Faculty of Health website (www.uts.edu.au/about/faculty-health) and Canvas at: https://canvas.uts.edu.au/.
UTS Library
The Library has a wide range of resources, facilities and services to support you including textbooks, subject readings, health literature databases, workshops and bookable study rooms. There is also a team of librarians to help you with your questions available via online chat, phone and in person. W: lib.uts.edu.au, Facebook: utslibrary, Twitter: @utslibrary Tel: (02) 9514 3666.
Improve Your Academic and English Language Skills
Marks for all assessment tasks such as assignments and examinations are given not only for what you write but also for how you write. If you would like the opportunity to improve your academic and English language skills, make an appointment with the HELPS (Higher Education Language & Presentation Support) Service in Student Services.
HELPS (Higher Education Language & Presentation Support)
HELPS provides assistance with English language proficiency and academic language. Students who need to develop their written and/or spoken English should make use of the free services offered by HELPS, including academic language workshops, vacation intensive courses, drop-in consultations, individual appointments and Conversations@UTS (www.ssu.uts.edu.au/helps). HELPS staff are also available for drop-in consultations at the UTS Library. Phone (02) 9514 9733.
Please see www.uts.edu.au for additional information on other resources provided to students by UTS.
The Accessibility and Financial Assistance Service
The Accessibility Service can support students with disabilities, medical or mental health conditions, including temporary injuries (e.g., broken limbs). The Accessibility Service works with Academic Liaison Officers in each Faculty to provide ‘reasonable adjustments’ such as exam provisions, assistive technology, requests and strategies for managing your studies alongside your health condition. If you’re unsure whether you need assistance, we recommend getting in touch early and we can provide advice on how our service can assist you. Make an appointment with an Accessibility Consultant (AC) on +61 2 9514 1177 or Accessibility@uts.edu.au.
The Financial Assistance Service can assist you with financial aspects of life at university, including Centrelink information, tax returns and budgeting, interest-free student loans and grants to assist with course-related costs. Check eligibility and apply online and make an appointment on +61 2 9514 1177 or Financial.assistance@uts.edu.au.