Quantitative Research Methods in Education

This unit introduces students to the core quantitative research methodologies within educational research. At the end of the unit, students will be able to apply the processes involved in conducting quantitative and mixed methods research, in particular forming a hypothesis, selecting and justifying methods of data collection, analysis and interpretation, specifically data generated in the context of Australian education sectors. Core research methods covered include experimental and correlational research designs. Students will acquire an understanding of the use of statistics in research. Ethical considerations from initial data collection through to data analysis and transparency in reporting are emphasised and guidelines considered. Students will be able to identify and access existing statistical data sets relevant to educational research. They will understand the purpose of undertaking a literature review before commencing a research project, develop literature search skills and examine literature for its assumptions and biases. Student will learn about the  peer review process – how it works and why it is important. Students will also develop their academic reading and writing ability to a graduate standard through critical reading of quantitative research in the field of education and writing tasks preparing them for their Professional Inquiry or Minor Thesis projects.

Topics may include:           The structure of research papers Academic reading and writing The relationship between research, theory and practice How to develop a ‘researchable’ question or topic When to choose a quantitative technique How to collect statistical data via surveys Sampling techniques Drawing conclusions from statistical analyses and acknowledging limitations.   What constitutes research (e.g. the ARC definition) and what counts as sound evidence in the development of policy and practice The responsibility of researchers to present their findings honestly