QUESTION: Some of the most fundamental principles in social science research ethics include informed consent and the need to ensure, not assume, access to private spaces. However, these principles may be challenged in research on online platforms (think Reddit, Twitter, Facebook etc), where the notion of ‘publicly available data’ is debated. Describe some of the ethical challenges that are involved in qualitative, online research and discuss how we can engage in social research in these spaces while still conducting ethical research.
TASK DESCRIPTION: For the final assignment, you are required to write a 2000-word essay on one of the five topics below. Regardless of which topic you choose, in writing your essay you are required to do the following:
– Respond to an essay question by formulating a clear and well-supported argument, which is developed progressively throughout the essay
– Draw on your own independent literature search, starting off with the recommended and required readings introduced in the subject (see the Reading List) but going well beyond them to base your claims in relevant academic literature
– Include examples to illustrate your topic and/or explain your argument. These examples should be from existing, academic social science research (i.e., journal articles and other academic publications, not websites, consultancy reports, etc.)
TASK PURPOSE:
– To provide an opportunity to demonstrate critical, analytical skills and a capacity for reflexivity developed throughout the semester
– To develop an ability to recognise the strengths and limitations of qualitative research and how that relates to specific methodological debates
– To provide an opportunity to develop rigour in selecting and critically appraising relevant sources and drawing on them in formulating your own arguments
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA: The research essay will be assessed on whether (and to what extent) your responses to the questions have demonstrated:
The understanding of the chosen question as demonstrated by the response formulated in the essay
The ability to select and analyse relevant academic literature, including research examples, to develop a rigorous argument
The ability to progressively develop an argument as evidenced by a clear and sensible essay structure, including clear structuring of paragraphs
The ability to express yourself clearly and in line with the academic expectations in regard to grammar, style and referencing