Key facts
UNE unit code: HASS545
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - On Campus
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information

In this unit, you build a practical understanding of research and inquiry, and how these core ideas shape the way data is collected, analysed and reported in the humanities, arts, and social sciences.
You examine key approaches to research design and compare common research strategies, weighing up their advantages and limitations for different research goals. You also practise reading research with a critical eye, analysing and evaluating academic and professional studies from a range of fields.
By the end of the unit, you can identify discipline-specific research problems, match them to appropriate methodologies and methods, and use judgement and creativity to shape your own research proposal.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 1 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)

Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- critically evaluate and articulate the theoretical and methodological foundations of research and inquiry in the Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences, and apply this understanding to justify and inform the collection, analysis, interpretation, and communication of research data;
- demonstrate in-depth theoretical knowledge of and articulate the advantages and disadvantages of different research strategies;
- demonstrate advanced skills in the critical analysis, interpretation, synthesis, and evaluation of academic and professional research across a range of disciplines to inform scholarly inquiry and professional practice;
- apply well developed critical thinking and independent judgement to identify discipline-specific research problems and justify the selection of appropriate methodologies and methods for their investigation; and
- independently formulate and communicate a theoretically informed and methodologically justified research proposal relevant to disciplinary contexts in the Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1: Online Posts | No | 5% | All offerings | No. Words: 250 |
| Assessment 2: Written Task | Yes | 35% | All offerings | No. Words: 2000 |
| Assessment 3: Portfolio with an Oral Interview - Assurance Task | Yes | 60% | All offerings | Students must obtain at least 50% in the Assurance Task (and at least 50% overall) to receive a pass or better in the unit. No. Words: 3500 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Textbook information will be displayed approximately 8 weeks prior to the commencement of the teaching period. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
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