Course Catalogue

This short course is available online to domestic and international students

This short course introduces methods in realist review (the realist approach to synthesis of existing literature and evidence) and explains their grounding in a realist philosophy of science. Students practice skills in scoping a realist review, developing program theory to guide the review, developing a realist search strategy for evidence, extracting evidence from literature, and synthesising findings. International reporting and quality standards for realist review will be used for self-assessment and as a tool for instructor feedback.

Participants will be able to: 

1. Explain the implications of a realist approach for the tasks necessary to undertake a realist literature review.
2. Formulate an overarching and subsidiary questions for a realist literature review.
3. Develop an initial tentative theory explaining how a selected policy or program is expected to operate, or for a realist research or evaluation question.
4. Create and justify a realist literature search strategy.
5. Create and trial a coding framework for a realist literature review.

This course will be delivered over 3 weeks between 23rd June - 13th July 2025.
 

Participants should have a recognised undergraduate degree and a working understanding of/exposure to the field of evaluation in relation to policy or programs. There is an expectation that applicants will have easy access to a computer and the internet, basic computer literacy skills, a high degree of literacy suitable for reading academic English language texts and are proficient in English. Students will need a personal computer with videoconferencing capability, headset (optional) or quiet environment for online class meetings, and internet connection.

Completion of or prior enrolment in the Introduction to Realist Philosophy of Science short course is a prerequisite for this course.

This short course is ideal for postgraduate students using, or considering use of, realist approaches in their research; professionals and academics using realist approaches; and commissioners of realist evaluation and other realist research.

As part of the application process, it is important that you meet the minimum academic entry requirements. If you have any questions, please email the International team: international@cdu.edu.au. We look forward to helping you through the process of applying to study with us at CDU.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

To gain entry into Charles Darwin University, all VET International applicants must satisfy the University's English language Proficiency Requirements for their chosen course of study.