This module provides a comprehensive introduction to research methods and design, equipping you with essential skills for conducting rigorous and impactful research. You will explore a range of different approaches to conducting research, gaining practical experience in research planning, data collection, and ethical considerations. Emphasis is placed on selecting appropriate research designs for various questions and contexts. By the end of the module, you will be prepared to independently design and execute research projects that contribute meaningfully to your field of study.

The module explores concepts around human rights, the rights of the child and social issues relevant to children, young people and marginalised adults. It also provides a core foundation to help students build academic and professional skills for post-graduate study and work within education and community settings involving social justice. The module also considers academic conduct policies. 

This module adopts Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems Theory to critically examine the cultural and social context of childhood and social factors and inequalities that affect the lives, wellbeing, and development of children and young people. Social issues considered may include parenting styles/capacity, perceptions of children and childhood, poverty/socio-economic disadvantage, gender inequality, ethnicity, refugees and asylum seekers, LGBTQI+.

For educational leaders, the rapidly evolving educational landscape we now operate within necessitates the development of a more purposeful ‘global literacy’ across a range of knowledge domains so we can be more agile in our leadership responses. This module focuses on the impact of globalisation on the practice of educational leadership. At the heart of this module is an exploration of the complexities of leadership practice within domestic and international contexts, underpinned by exposure to broader international learning scenarios where leaders' decisions are paramount to educational success.

The module focuses on social justice for persons with disability and mental health conditions. It draws on sociological theories to encourage critical discussion about how these aspects are perceived globally, along with care, support systems, policy and legislation. Students are encouraged to consider these issues in the context of their own workplace or home community/ country.

This module explores concepts and theories of social justice and how education in its broadest sense can promote socially just outcomes in schools and communities. Students will reflect on critical incidences in their personal and professional lives to understand how their own experiences shape their attitudes and working practices with regards to minority and marginalised groups. Students will engage in community work and/or with community practitioners and reflect on the knowledge and skills gained to plan personal and professional career development. It will also introduce students to varied career roles. 

Learning in the Research Project module is largely independent. You will be allocated a supervisor who you will work closely with throughout the year. Individual supervision meetings will provide you with focused support from your supervisor, allowing you to refine your research questions, deepen your analysis, and receive detailed feedback tailored to your unique project.