Research Methods

This subject is the foundational class for all MTh students. Students will be taught advanced research skills across the main disciplines of theological and ministry studies. They will also develop some of the early research of what will become their major project.

Awards offering Research Methods

This unit is offered as a part of the following awards:

• Master of Theology

Unit Content

Outcomes

1. Discuss the difference between quantitative and qualitative approaches to research;
2. Formulate a research question and outline an appropriate research plan for data collection;
3. Effectively construct and communicate a research project which will inform and enhance the selected research field

Subject Content

• Constructing a literature review
• Composing a research question
• Ethical issues in research
• Framing methodological orientations
• Quantitative approaches to research
• Statistical techniques in data interpretation
• Qualitative approaches to research
• Qualitative approaches in Biblical Studies
• Working with a supervisor
• Research philosophies
• Theological implications of research
• Writing for examiners
• An approach to research design
• Submission and review processes

This course may be offered in the following formats

• Face-to-Face (onsite)
• Distance/E-Learning (online)
• Intensive (Two weeks (not necessarily consecutive): 7 hours per day for 10 days = 70 class hours + 170 hours out of class time for research, writing, exam preparation and execution, ancillary activities associated with completion of assigned tasks)
• Extensive (10 days spread over the semester)

Please consult your course prospectus or enquire about how and when this course will be offered next at Alphacrucis University College.

Assessment Methods

• Forum Posts (20%)
• Analysis and Critique of an Assigned Research Paper (15%)
• Research Proposal (25%)
• Research Essay (40%)

Prescribed Text

• Esterberg, K.G. Qualitative methods in social research. McGraw Hill, 2002.
• Jackson, S. L., Research methods and statistics: A critical thinking approach. Thomson/Wadsworth, 2006.

Check with your instructor before purchasing any textbooks

Representative References

• As relevant to the discipline, and agreed upon by advisor