About Certificate in Internet Research Methods
Level 9 Award - 10 ECTS credits
Special Purpose Award (Subject to approval)
What is Internet Research Methods?
Internet research methods focuses on the use of the internet as a research tool. The advent of web 2.0 technologies enables researchers to do things not possible using traditional methods. It sets out to provide the information about method, techniques, procedures and tools which are required for internet based research.
This course evaluates studies and research which focus on human interactions with emerging technologies, including the internet, mobile computing, mobile phones, games consoles, virtual reality, digital media and any other technology, which has demonstrated an ability to alter human behaviours. It also introduces the tools that are currently being used in on-line research and data analysis.
The course aims to provide you with the skills required in order to carry out empirical research with technology and in virtual environments. It is drawn from the MSc in Cyberpsychology (DL155) in IADT.
On completion of the programme, you will be able to:
- Design and complete an internet based research study (i.e. experiment, survey, observation, interview, content analysis, use of tests and scales)
- Develop appropriate and interesting research questions related to cyberpsychology and other areas of interest
- Identify and evaluate alternative potential research designs
- Analyse and interpret the findings of an internet based research study
- Communicate the findings of an internet based research study to a wider audience through alternative methods (e.g. poster, website, oral presentation, empirical APA style report)
- Critically evaluate research in cyberpsychology and other areas of interest.
Aims and Objectives
What will I be able to do when I graduate?
The knowledge and skills you have acquired will be invaluable in a wide range of careers and activities, and so can be applied to virtually any endeavour related to technology and research.
This course will be highly relevant to individuals:
who wish to update their research skills
who want to become familiar with the latest research using online technologies
who are trying to research the potential of ICT to assess/help individuals and groups
who wish to develop research skills involving technology
who work in organisations developing an online presence
What type of topics will I study?
The content may vary from year to year in response to the prominent technologies and research of the time, however some indicative content would include:
Hypothesis generation and testing
Internet based research designs
Proposal writing
Surveys and online questionnaires
On-line experimental designs
Ethnographic research
Online tests and scales
Online ethical considerations
Data analysis and interpretation (SPSS)
Qualitative research online
Using web.20 technologies for research
What are the entry requirements?
Undergraduate qualification of 2nd Class Honours or higher at Degree level
Applicants may also be considered provided they can demonstrate Degree equivalence, which can be verified through the APEL (Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning) process
Shortlisted applicants may be called for interview
What are the fees?
Please contact our Admissions Office for more information.
What is the closing date?
Applications must be made to the Admissions Office in IADT.
1st round of applications: 10th May 2012 .
2nd round of applications (if places available): 17th August 2012.
Download application form here or contact our Admissions Office on admissions@iadt.ie / (01) 239 4621





