Courses for Research Degrees

The goal of this course is to provide students with a solid background in the philosophy of research, research design, in modern methods of data and information collection, as well as in data handling and analysis for environmental management. This will include an introduction to the conceptual and practical aspects of qualitative and quantitative research and the types of topics for which each approach is useful. Students will be introduced to various quantitative and qualitative analytical methods including media and public education, participant observation, participatory action research, media and textual analysis as well as software for data analysis. The modules will provide the student with a broad range of research skills which can be utilized both for the specific Masters project and as a basis for more long-term projects. The course also aims to develop student skills in making oral presentations as well as writing for scientific papers and technical reports.

The aim of this course is to provide students with a fundamental understanding of the importance of storage, retrieval and analysis of environmental data. In particular, the course will provide practical training in statistical analysis of environmental data and demonstrate the storage and retrieval of biodiversity information using national and international databases. As such, this course will show students how data, through appropriate management and analysis, becomes information which then informs the decision making process. In addition, it will provide the student with fundamental skills which may underpin many elements of their future research project and career.

Upon successful completion of this course students should be knowledgeable about the key principles of ethics, and be able to: