Social Research MethodsAssessment 3: Discussion Paper
Due: Friday 19th May 2017, 6pm via Turnitin
Length: 1500 words, Weight: 45%

In this assignment, you are required to respond to a set of questions to discuss the research process in relation to oneof the nominated research topics. The
assignment will demonstrate your ability to conceptualise a research project and think through the steps, issues, and debates critical to completing a social research
project. In order to complete thisassignment, you need to select one topic from the list below and answer the questions that follow in relation to your chosen topic.
There is a general guide for the word count for each question provided below in brackets throughout, but this is not compulsory. Bear in mind however, that it is your
responsibility to make sure you answer the questions within the word limit. Do not include long quotes, use yourown words as much as possible, reference your sources
using Harvard style, and remember to edit and spell-check your work. It is important to give yourself time to think through and rework your answers, preferably over
multiple drafts.
You can use the notes and prompts from lectures &tutorials to assist you in writing your Discussion Paper assignment. If you do not attend tutorials (we take the
roll), do not ask forextensive assistance for this assignment from your tutor.
TOPICS (select one from the following list):
1. Gender
2. Youth
3. Employment
4. Migration
5. Sexuality 6. Ageing
7. Housing
8. Mental Health
9. Community
10. Environment

Questions (you must address/include all 7 and include a Harvard style reference list; remember that the word count proffered is a guide only)
Question 1: Parameters of the research (300 words)
State the topic you have selected and explain your specific interest in researching this topic. Remember you cannot research everything, make your framework and
parameters realistic. Consider:
• What do you want to find out?
• Why is it important?
• What social issues do you see as relevant to research of this topic?
Question 2: The research question (100 words)
Based on Q1(above):
• Phrase your research question clearly and succinctly;
• Identify the assumptions underpinning your research question.
Question 3: Clearly explain your epistemological position and your theoretical frameworkfor the research topic you have selected. (100 words)
• One word answers are not sufficient, you must contextualise &explain/clarify your position
Question 4: Identify and explain any ethical issues associated with your research question(100 words)
Question 5: Research design (300 words)
Briefly explain the research design. In so doing provide clear links to yourepistemological position and theoretical perspective, as well as to your methods
forcollecting and analysing the research data.
Question 6. Methods for collecting the research data (300 words)
How will you collect the research data (not secondary research)? Identify the method(s) and explain why these method(s). Remember, the methods you choose to collect
and analyse your research data must becompatible with each other and with your research purpose.
Question 7. Methods for analysing the research data (300 words)
How will you analyse the research data? Identify the method/s and explain why you are engaging these method/s. Remember, the methods you choose to collect and analyse
your research data must becompatible with each other and with your research purpose.
References.Harvard style(not included in word count)
• You must include a minimum of 3 peer-reviewed sources (books and/or articles) current and relevant to the researchquestion you are addressing.