Research Methods for Interactive Technologies - COM00043H

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Module summary

The aim of the module is to provide the students with a grounding in the principles and practice of the various research methods commonly used in human-computer interaction research both in the academic and commercial context.

 

Module will run

Occurrence	Teaching period
A	Autumn Term 2022-23

Module aims

The aim of the module is to provide the students with a grounding in the principles and practice of the various research methods commonly used in human-computer interaction research both in the academic and commercial context. Qualitative methods include content analysis, thematic analysis, grounded theory and observational studies. Quantitative methods include experimental design, the basics of statistical analysis and the use of questionnaires as instruments. Research governance includes the ethical conduct of studies and the need for good data governance.

Module learning outcomes

• Select and critically justify a suitable research method to answer a particular question in the field of human-computer interaction (HCI).

• Prepare a short literature review to motivate a research topic

• Critique the method of a study in HCI against the standards of rigour and validity of the chosen methodology

• Recognise and address the problems of bias that arise with different methods

• Analyse qualitative and quantitative data appropriate to different methods and experiments

• Describe the important aspects of research governance including ethical conduct and data governance

• Critically discuss research findings based on the methods used to produce those findings. Recognise weaknesses in arguments and the use of data to provide evidence for arguments

Indicative assessment

Task	% of module mark
Essay/coursework	100

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task	% of module mark
Essay/coursework	100

Module feedback

Feedback is provided through work in practical sessions, and after the final assessment as per normal University guidelines.

Indicative reading

Howell, D.	Fundamental statistics for the behavioural sciences, 8th edn	Wadsworth	2007
Harris, P.	Designing and Reporting Experiments in Psychology, 3rd edn	OUP	2008
Cairns, P., Cox, A. (eds)	Research Methods in Human Computer Interaction	Cambridge University Press	2008
Charmaz, K.	Constructing Grounded Theory, 2nd edn	Sage	2013
Robson, C.	Real World Research, 3rd edn	John Wiley & Sons	2011