Explore UCD

UCD Home >

GEOG41190

Academic Year 2025/2026

Advanced Qualitative Methods (GEOG41190)

Subject:
Geography
College:
Social Sciences & Law
School:
Geography
Level:
4 (Masters)
Credits:
5
Module Coordinator:
Dr Arlene Crampsie
Trimester:
Spring
Mode of Delivery:
On Campus
Internship Module:
No
How will I be graded?
Letter grades

Curricular information is subject to change.

This module offers students an opportunity to develop practical skills in advanced qualitative research methods. Through a combination of lectures, discussions and guided seminars, students will be introduced to a broad variety of qualitative research methods, beginning with questionnaires, interviews and focus groups before exploring innovative and creative methods. Guided initially by staff, but then supporting the methodological interests of students enrolled on the module, methods covered may include: historical analysis; discourse analysis; go-along interviews; photo methods; artistic and creative interpretations etc. Students will critically appraise each approach, reflecting on issues of logistical feasibility, critiques of ‘bias’, subjectivity, and ethical considerations, to determine the best approaches for various research scenarios. Key considerations around analytical approaches, data collection and data reuse will also be explored.

About this Module

Learning Outcomes:

On successful completion of this module you should have:
1. Developed a broad understanding of the potential of advanced qualitative methods
2. Critically engaged with a variety of qualitative research methods understanding the challenges and complexities of each
3. Determined an appropriate qualitative research method for your own research and critically assessed this approach by reflecting on the specifics of your research question, research logistics and ethical considerations
4. Developed enhanced critical thinking, information synthesis and writing skills

Indicative Module Content:

Week 1 Introduction to the module
Week 2 Why choose qualitative research methods?
Week 3 Foundational Qualitative Methods (i): Questionnaires / Surveys
Week 4 Foundational Qualitative Methods (ii): Interviews / Focus Groups
Week 5 Creative / Arts-based Methods
Week 6 Textual, narrative and discourse analysis
Week 7 Data Coding and Analysis Techniques

TWO WEEK BREAK

Week 8 – 11 Student led seminars offering an in depth, critical review of a range of qualitative methodological approaches related to ongoing research
Week 12 Assignment Discussion & Conclusion

Student Effort Hours:
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

22

Specified Learning Activities

40

Autonomous Student Learning

40

Total

102


Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
Teaching and learning on this module will include:
- Lectures / Seminars
- Reflective Learning
- Active / task-based learning through peer and group work in practical workshop and 'break-out' sessions
- Inquiry and case-based learning through student presentation led sessions

Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Not applicable to this module.
 

Assessment Strategy
Description Timing Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade In Module Component Repeat Offered
Assignment(Including Essay): Develop a research design for your specific research project that incorporates an appropriate qualitative research methodology. Week 7 Graded No
35
No
Participation in Learning Activities: Class Respondent: Each student will be assigned one student-led seminar where they will act as respondent to the class lead. They will provide a 3-5 minute response and questions for discussion. Week 8, Week 9, Week 10, Week 11 Graded No
15
No
Assignment(Including Essay): Drawing on academic literature, you will describe and critically appraise a qualitative research methodology of your choosing, provide detail on the specific method and reflect on its applicability. Week 12 Graded No
50
No

Carry forward of passed components
No
 

Resit In Terminal Exam
Autumn No
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 

Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment
• Group/class feedback, post-assessment

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

- Group feedback on common issues arising from the written assignment will be provided during lectures. - Timely individualised feedback will be provided on submissions. - Students are welcome to meet with the module coordinator during office hours if more detailed feedback / further clarification is required.

Name Role
Professor Kath Browne Lecturer / Co-Lecturer

Timetabling information is displayed only for guidance purposes, relates to the current Academic Year only and is subject to change.
Spring Lecture Offering 1 Week(s) - 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33 Thurs 15:00 - 16:50