This unit provides students with an overview of research skills relevant to human services, academic and counselling contexts. The focus will be on qualitative research, with an introduction to quantitative research. Given the growing focus on research in various settings, it is vital to understand the various research paradigms, methodologies and ethical considerations.

Students will be guided through a range of key research tools. In particular, they will learn the skills of reading and critically appraising research papers and undertaking a literature review. Students will learn how to develop a relevant research question and a related research proposal outline. This outline will incorporate research aims and study design.