Doing Criminology

• • Why Study Research Methods?
  • Identifying a Topic, Purpose, and Research Question
  • Conducting a Literature Review
  • Concepts, Conceptualization, Operationalization, Measurement, Variables, and Data
  • Sampling
  • Research Using Qualitative Data
  • Survey Research
  • Experimental Research
  • Research Using Secondary Data
  • GIS and Crime Mapping
  • Evaluation Research
  • Course Review

• Study resources

  • Instructional methods

    • Discussion forum/Discussion Board
    • Online assignment submission
    • Podcasting/Lecture capture

  • Online materials

    • Resources and Links
    • Printable format materials

Others

Students who have completed more than 2 OUA units (GPA 4.0+) and are planning on completing the Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice are strongly encouraged to enrol in the degree. Part of this process will involve registering your study plan with Griffith University, which will help to ensure that you are studying the required units.

Special requirements

No special requirements

This subject is intended as an introduction to research in criminal justice and criminology. Some of the students taking the subject will likely enter professions in criminal justice and some may move into more research-oriented professions in criminology. Therefore, emphasis is placed on the research methodologies used in the criminal justice and criminological literature. Students begin by learning the logic of research methodology in the social sciences and then learn how researchers in criminology carry out research projects.

This subject is designed to expose students to the key issues, concepts, and topics related to research methods in criminal justice and criminological research. A wide range of topics will be covered, including, the research process, data, variables, research designs, data analysis, and the connection between policy and research. Emphasis will be placed on pitfalls associated with each part of research methods, as well as the key ethical issues that are encountered throughout the research process. After completing this course, students will be able to demonstrate a foundational understanding of the main issues that are directly relevant to research methods as it applies to criminal justice and criminological research.

Assessment details will be advised at the beginning of the subject offering.

• Invigilated Exam (50%)
• Weekly Activity Log (20%)
• Application Exercises (30%)