This hands-on, application-driven introduction to quantitative research aims to give you the tools to scrutinize, conduct and present basic statistical...

An Introduction to Applied Quantitative Analysis in the Social Sciences (EDPS0216)

This hands-on, application-driven introduction to quantitative research aims to give you the tools to scrutinize, conduct and present basic statistical analyses in the social sciences and education studies. The course will introduce statistical concepts, issues surrounding the quantitative measurement of social science concepts, and research applications through relatable, real-life case studies. Lectures will be supported by a computer-based seminar series using SPSS to further your quantitative analysis skills.

What is the purpose of an education? In public discourse and policy interventions, one way education has become understood is as a means of preparing...

Educating for Employment? Understanding Learning in the 21st Century Economy (EDPS0019)

What is the purpose of an education? In public discourse and policy interventions, one way education has become understood is as a means of preparing individuals for employment. Young people are encouraged to study for qualifications in the hopes of gaining better jobs, adult workers must engage in ‘lifelong learning’ to respond to changes in technology. Employers are becoming more involved with curriculum design to better prepare students for the workplace, and policy makers introduce policies to ensure the populace is “work ready”. The unemployed are demonised in the press and sanctioned by the state for what are seen to be personal failures rather than features of the social structure. What kinds of workers are produced by different kinds of education? Exploring schools, universities, workplaces, third and private sector training programmes students will engage with and critically assess the claims made about the ability of education to improve individual prospects and collective aims of reducing poverty and inequality. Using theoretical insights and connecting with empirical research from social anthropology, sociology and education studies, students will be given the tools to develop their own informed opinions about the purpose and value of education. Students interested in this module must be willing to read, write and engage in peer review activities every week.