Description 

The aim of this course is to equip enrollees with the skills and knowledge to engage with empirical research either directly as a researcher, or as a policy maker critically engaging with the most recent research.

Topics 

1. Designing a quantitative research project
2. Incorporating qualitative insights
3. Principles of sampling
4. Principles of survey design
5. Using administrative and linked datasets

Learning outcomes 

Upon successful completion, enrollee's will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Specify a research question related to the policy process that is answerable using empirical methods
2. Communicate and critique existing research in a rigorous manner
3. Understand the assumptions, strengths and limitations of the main empirical techniques for policy design
4. Understand the different forms of sampling design and their strengths/limitations
5. Design or critique a survey or data collection methodology

Indicative assessment 

Assignment 1 – Introductions and identification of research question (500 words, 20% of final mark) LO: 1, 2

Assignment 2 – Research design (1,500 words, 80% of final mark) LO: 3, 4, 5

Assumed knowledge 

This micro-credential is taught at graduate level and assumes the generic skills of a Bachelors or equivalent.

Micro-credential stack information 

This micro-credential may be undertaken as a stand-alone course.

Details 

Course Code: DATA16

Workload: 22 hours 

• Contact hours: 7 hours
• Individual study and assessment: 15 hours

ANU unit value: 1 unit

AQF Level: 8

Contact: Professor Nicholas Biddle

This Micro-credential is taught at a graduate level.  This is not an AQF qualification.