Candidates will encounter a wide range of contemporary approaches to human subject research, and the epistemologies and theoretical and ethical perspectives that frame different approaches. The unit details quantitative, qualitative and mixed-methods research approaches. Scaffolded tasks will enable students to evaluate a range of methods and identify those that are appropriate to their likely fields of research and gain advanced skills in one or more research methods. The unit will also consider the ways in which theological and spiritual matters inform research methodology.
Unit code: PPX102Z
Unit status: Approved (Minor revision)
Points: 18.0
Unit level: Doctoral
Unit discipline: Professional Practice
Proposing College: School of Graduate Research
Show when this unit is running| 1. | Demonstrate substantial knowledge of terminologies, theoretical foundations and select methodologies for human research. |
| 2. | Articulate the impact of theological questions regarding the nature of humanity, knowledge and ways of knowing on issues and/or practices of human research. |
| 3. | Critically evaluate research methodologies and their capacity for use in the chosen field of research. |
| 4. | Determine a methodological approach for a selected project, which distinguishes between ‘method’ as a tool used to explore a research question and ‘methodology’ as a mode of discourse. |
By teaching through collegial collaboration and learning via critical reflection conducted independently and in community, the unit engages theory and practice to achieve learning outcomes.
| Type | Description | Word count | Weight (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portfolio - Portfolio in Three Parts | Candidates develop a 3-part portfolio their exploration of three different research methodologies they have encountered in the unit. In each case, whether presented as an 1000-word-equivalent artefact, oral presentation or written report, candidates include discussion and/or reference to: the origins of the methodology (including key proponents); key terms specific to the methodology; key strengths, presenting issues (practical and ethical) and potential contributions to knowledge and ways of knowledge that a user needs to be mindful of; and example/s and critical evaluation of how this methodology has been applied by other researchers in the candidate's professional field/s. |
3000 | 50.0 |
| Essay - Essay | An essay critically evaluating a methodology and relevant methods appropriate for the candidate’s project, including description, justification and proposed use. |
3000 | 50.0 |
Unit approved for the University of Divinity by Prof Albert Haddad on 16 Feb, 2026
Unit record last updated: 2026-02-16 08:54:22 +1100