The learning design comprises a set of small-scale tasks followed by an open-ended task, online resources and a range of support mechanisms. View the Learning Design Sequence for a graphical representation of this learning design.

Two distinct models of activities provide the structure for this learning design. All the activities integrated into the learning design are grounded in a simulation of virtual Masters students designing, collecting and analysing their data within the simulated Kingston township...

There are five key resources in the learning design...

There are four key support elements underpinning the unit...

The unit in which the learning design is implemented is a core postgraduate unit for the faculty of Community Services, Education and Social Sciences. It is usually the first postgraduate unit undertaken by students enrolled in a Masters degree in Education, Psychology, Nursing, Public Health or Security Studies...

The planned student outcomes of the learning design are: Experiential approach to developing research skills, data analysis, quantitative and qualitative methodologies; Simulated research experience of working within a research team;...

Students are require to work in learning teams of three ( including a minimum of one 'external' team member who cannot attend workshops)...

The integration of ICT into the learning design for the research methods unit provided the opportunity to break down the barriers of distance and isolation from peers and to provide a scaffolding for developing an inclusive postgraduate research culture...

The learning design is based on a constructivist framework, encouraging independent learners who can work collaboratively...

The unit RES 5101: Introductory Research methods has been a core postgraduate unit for the Faculty of Community Services, Education and Social Sciences for the last decade...

Unit evaluation by students have been very positive...

Any sense of working within a virtual setting is lost within the first two weeks. Heated discussions take place on the bulletin boards within the first few weeks related to methodology issues associated with Brian’s survey and continue in workshops and bulletin boards all semester...