GGR277H5 Social Research Methods in Geography

GGR277 Course Desciption

Course Description

This course introduces students to the key approaches that qualitative researchers use to answer important questions and solve complex problems relating to the social world. It addresses the philosophies, theories and methods associated with qualitative social research in geography. Specific methods and issues likely to be covered include archival research, surveys, interviews, focus groups, ethnography, participatory research, ethics, as well as data analysis and interpretation. Throughout the course students will work through the process of designing their own research proposals, collecting and interpreting data, and reporting their results. This course fulfills one field day.

Distribution Requirement: Social Science

Lecture hours: 24

Practicum hours: 12

Exclusion: GGR271H1, GGRC31H3

Prerequisite: 4.0 credits

Core Skills Developed

  • social research methods
  • understanding of research ethics
  • interview, focus group and questionnaire development
  • designing research projects