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IAS421 - Research Proposal, Design and Ethics

2025

Sector

Higher Education

Discipline

Social Science

Credit Points

Equivalent Units

Prerequisites

Incompatible

Assumed Knowledge

Unit Description

This unit introduces students to the principles and practical skills entailed in designing a study and preparing to undertake research. Students examine and critique a range of research approaches and are guided through the research planning and ethics application process in a structured environment. Students engage in discussion and debate about the appropriateness of relevant methodological approaches, protocols and ethical practice to design an approach to be applied to their own research context.

Unit Learning Outcomes

1.	Explain and critically appraise the structure and function of a research project.
2.	Apply ethical principles in the development of a research plan.
3.	Analyse and critique various methodologies employed in primary research.
4.	Critically evaluate the application of a methodology to a chosen research topic.
5.	Identify and critique various types of resources used to inform research.
6.	Analyse information to form valid and reliable conclusions.
7.	Develop an organised structure for the research project and justify the choices made.

Assessment Overview

	Assessment Task	Value (of total mark)	Related Learning Outcome/s
1.	Research proposal (300 - 500 words)	10%	'1,7
2.	Ethics in Research (1,500 - 2,000 words)	40%	1,2,3,4,5,6,7
3.	Written task 1 (2,500 - 3,000 words)	50%	1,2,3,4,5,6,7

Unit Availability

Year	Semester	Att Mode	Location	Learning Method	Timetable*
2025	Semester 1	Internal	Casuarina Campus	OLR	View
2025	Semester 1	External	External Studies	OLR	View
2025	Semester 2	Internal	Casuarina Campus	OLR
2025	Semester 2	External	External Studies	OLR

* Timetable will be displayed in new tab or window depending on your browser's configuration; ensure Pop-ups are allowed for this site to view the timetable.

OLR: Internet access is required for this unit as students are required to access study materials provided on-line through Learnline. Please log into Learnline on the first day of each teaching period. For more information about Learnline, please click here.

Critical Dates

Important Dates for Students

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2025 Domestic Unit Fees (PDF)