Module Details
The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title RESEARCH METHODS FOR IRISH STUDIES
Code IRIS230
Coordinator Dr C Downham
Institute of Irish Studies
C.Downham@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2021-22 Level 5 FHEQ First Semester 15

Aims

To promote confidence in undertaking research projects;

To provide an interdisciplinary perspective on the study of Ireland;

To introduce skills required for independent research.

Learning Outcomes

(LO1) Students learn the methods used by professional researchers when approaching a new research question.

(LO2) Students gain an understanding of how to develop their own opinions, in positive engagement with the primary and secondary literature.

(LO3) Students develop their report writing skills through successive assessments.

(S1) Improving own learning / performance - reflective practice.

(S2) Communication (oral, written and visual) - academic writing (including referencing skills)

(S3) Communication (oral, written and visual) - influencing skills – argumentation.

(S4) Information skills - information accessing: Locating relevant information; identifying and evaluating information sources.

(S5) Time and project management - project planning.

(S6) Critical thinking and problem solving - synthesis.

Syllabus
 

Apart from an introductory and concluding seminars (weeks one and 12) the module is divided into three themes:

Irish history;

Irish literature;

Irish politics.

With three weeks of seminars devoted to each theme.

For each theme students will work with different members of Irish Studies staff related to their specialist research area. Students will produce a short piece of assessed work on each theme in the form of a report of the state of research (either a literature review or write up on methods) on a selected question. For example, 'does criminalisation affect former conflict-related prisoners?' (Irish Politics).

Teaching and Learning Strategies

Seminars will provide training on different research methods relating to Irish Studies and current questions in the field. This will develop independent study skills.

Students are encouraged to meet face-to-face with teaching staff to discuss their research reports.

Teaching Schedule
  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours   22

         22
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 128
TOTAL HOURS 150

Assessment
EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
             
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Report 3 Standard UoL penalties will apply. This will be marked anonymously. There is a reassessment opportunity.  -1500 words    40       
Report 2 Standard UoL penalties will apply. This will be marked anonymously. There is a reassessment opportunity.  -1500 words    35       
Report 1 Standard UoL penalties will apply. This will be marked anonymously. There is a reassessment opportunity.  -1500 words    25       

Recommended Texts
Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.