Rationale
This dissertation module will enable students to develop knowledge and expertise in one area, whilst relating it to the ecology of the development of the child in their unique context. Accordingly, this module will also equip you with skills which will enable you to research and problem solve in an area of specific interest and demonstrate transferable skills for continuing professional development.
Significant emphasis will be placed on ethical considerations in relation to the field of early years. Strong emphasis will be placed on consideration of ethical practice in relation to conducting research with young children and families, as well as integrity and anonymity in use of data collected. Consequently, you will be introduced to a range of research techniques and the process of collecting, analysing and evaluating quantitative and qualitative data.
Utilising these research methods, you will have the opportunity to demonstrate learning at a deep level, synthesising information form a wide range of relevant sources to inform their individual enquiry. Skills of reflection and reflexivity will be developed in addition to developing skills in planning a research project.
Aims and Distinctive Features
Critical analysis of links between the chosen area of research and evidence at the forefront of practice
To develop skills in planning, implementing and analysing a research project
Consider the ethical dimensions of research and demonstrate this in the research project
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
LO1- Critically discuss methodologies and research-based theories and their application to practice when working with children
LO2- Critically analyse the ethical considerations of research practice in relation to children
LO3- Critically evaluate data and literature in relation to a chosen area of research
LO4- Complete research task, using a synthesis of theory and research to inform practice
LO5- Plan and implement data collection, analyse and discuss evidence and present results of study
Task
Dissertation/Research Project You will write a research report on a topic of choice. You will choose a topic for research, carry out the research, complete a literature review, compile your findings and discuss these against other literature and theories. You will write your research up using a report format.
Reading List
Recommended Reading
Bell, J. (2014) Doing your research project: A guide for first-time researchers (6th edn), York, Open University Press
Holmes-Roberts, G. (2018) Doing your early years research project: a step by step guide (4th edn), London, Sage
Further Reading
Broadhead B, Howard J & Wood E (eds) (2010) Play and learning in early years: research to practice, London, Sage
Boud D, Keogh R & Walker D (eds) (1985) Reflection: turning experience into learning, London, Routledge
Bryman A (1988) Quality and Quantity in Social Research. Unwin Hyman
Callan S & Reed M (2011) Work-based research in the early years, London, Sage
Clark A & Moss P (2011) Listening to Young Children: The Mosaic Approach (2nd edn), London, National Childrens Bureau
Cohen, L., Manion, L and Morrison, K. (2011) Research Methods in Education (7th edn), London: Routledge
Cresswell JW (2002) Research Design, Qualitative, Quantitative and mixed methods approaches (2nd edn). London: Sage
De Vaus (2002) Surveys in Social Research. London: Routledge.
Gillham B (2000) Case Study Research Methods. Continuum
Gillham B (2000) The Research Interview. Continuum
Glaser B & Strauss A, The Discovery of Grounded Theory Chicago: Aldine (1967)
Gorard S (2001) Qualitative Methods in Education Research. Continuum
Green J & Browne J. (2005). Principles of Social Research. Open University Press.
Kellet M (2010) Rethinking Children and Research: Attitudes in Contemporary Society, London, Continuum International Publishing Group
Millar DC & Salkind NJ (2002) Handbook of Research Design and Social Measurement. London: Sage
Mukherji P & Albon P (2010) Research Methods in Early Childhood, London, Sage Publications
McIntosh P (2010) Action research and reflective practice: creative and visual methods to facilitate reflection and I, London, Routledge
Paige-Smith A & Craft A (eds) (2011) Developing reflective practice in early years, Maidenhead, OUP
Reed M & Canning N (2011) Reflective practice in early years, London, Sage
I have added what I think is the relevant and needed information. I have not specified the amount of sources but please use a good amount. This is to cover the literature review section of the dissertation. Please let me know if you need any additional information.
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