Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit considers the major research paradigms underpinning educational research. Emphasis is placed on highlighting implications for the statement of research questions, methodological approaches which can be adopted, approaches to testing and/or developing theory, and contributions to practice. Particular consideration is given to implications for the development of research proposals.

Credit
12 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationMode
Not available in 2025UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) have a basic understanding of the paradigms of positivism, post-positivism, interpretivism, critical theory, post-structuralism and postmodernism; (2) understand the various frameworks which help them to develop a research proposal; (3) understand the main components to a research proposal; and (4) know the ethics procedures for doing research for the Doctor of Education (30810).

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: project proposal. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Elaine Chapman
Unit rules
Prerequisites
enrolment in
the Doctor of Education (30810)
Advisable prior study
a master's degree, preferably in education, with evidence of research ability
Contact hours
compressed offering four days of intensive teaching
Texts

Individual lecturers will supply an appropriate list of texts.

  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.