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 exercises befitting SOAS, University of London's status as a research-intensive university and its rich research heritage.
Understanding Research Methods
Understanding Research Methods
Instructors: Dr J. Simon Rofe, SOAS, University of London
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3 hours to complete
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6 assignments
Taught in English
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There are 4 modules in this course
This week introduces you to the core ideas behind research and the qualities of a good research question. Through short interviews with academics, you'll explore how research is defined, why it matters, and how questions can shape the direction and purpose of a project. Rather than settling on a single definition, you’ll be encouraged to reflect on shared principles like clarity, relevance, and systematic inquiry.
What's included
5 videos2 readings2 assignments1 discussion prompt1 plugin
This week, we turn our attention to a key component of the research process: the literature review. But what exactly is it and why is it so important? A literature review is far more than a summary of books and articles. It’s your way of stepping into a scholarly conversation: listening to what others have said, identifying what’s missing, and beginning to shape your own voice in response. As several of this week's contributors suggest, it’s not just background reading, it’s the foundation of your research.
What's included
4 videos1 reading2 assignments1 plugin
Building on what you’ve learned about research questions and literature, this week focuses on how to start shaping your project. You’ll explore different research approaches, consider how your choices affect your project design, and hear from academics about why planning and time management are key to doing research well.
What's included
5 videos1 reading2 assignments1 plugin
This week marks a turning point in your research journey. Rather than revisiting your question alone, you'll now begin thinking like a researcher planning a full project. You'll consider how your question connects to wider issues, who your research might serve, and how to carry it out in a structured, ethical, and meaningful way. With support and reflections from experienced academics, you’ll draft the core elements of a research proposal, including your aim, rationale, and approach, while thinking about what makes research impactful, convincing, and worth doing.
What's included
4 videos1 peer review
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4.6 (2,747 ratings)
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4.6
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Showing 3 of 8393
DM
5
Reviewed on Dec 16, 2022
It is worth to add research knowldge via different approaches like using these well framed Online courses. Congratulation to the team who designed and made it work for the majority of needy groups.
TW
4
Reviewed on May 24, 2023
Good wrap up of how to do research and conduct its components. But, it's quite general not in details. All is about interviewing academic people what they think about different research methods.
AB
5
Reviewed on Sep 10, 2019
very good course. The last e-activity was proposal preparation. It will be good if they add something about sampling in reading materials. Very good experience for me.....I will recommend this course
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