The Programme Structure

Part I

This comprises six modules. They are normally studied in the order indicated in the brackets following the programme title.

Three modules provide a critical introduction to research in education:

Introduction to Education Research - ER1 (1) - an introduction to educational research, contemporary issues and debates in the field.

Processes of Educational Research - ER2 (3) - this module focuses on the research methodologies techniques and responsibilities of the researcher.

Research Design and Management - ER3 (6) - looks at practical issues involved in all stages of the research process, which includes those undertaken in Part II of the EdD programme.

Three further modules examine key issues in education to promote critical discussion of the literature and to encourage research in these areas:

Contemporary Debates in Education (2) - draws on a range of research studies to explore topical educational issues, together with emerging patterns of educational provision for the future.

Approaches to Education Policy (4) – introduces students to the critical study of education policy, its formation and effects in relation to theory and practice. Education policy themes include: marketisation/provatisation, globalisation, professional identity and equality.

Named route module (5) – focuses on a variety of aspects of educational research related to the specific named route chosen by the student, in this case, Children, Schools and Families.

Part II

Students undertake an independent study on an approved topic, which is reported in a thesis of approximately 50,000 words. The Part II research thesis is undertaken with supervision by a member of staff. It should be a substantial contribution to the knowledge and understanding of education, and will be examined through a viva examination to ensure the highest research standards. A list of the School of Education staff and their research interests can be found at http://www.shef.ac.uk/education/research/