Program Overview

Qualitative Research in Aged and Dementia Care Unit

Introduction

This unit will identify and examine some of the principal qualitative methods used in dementia care and aged care research. Students will gain a critical awareness of the nature of qualitative evidence and its role in informing quality care for older people and people with dementia.

Summary

• Unit name: Qualitative Research in Aged and Dementia Care
• Unit code: CAD305
• Credit points: 12.5
• College/School: Health
• Discipline: Wicking Dementia Research & Education Centre
• Coordinator: Doctor Joseph Haddon
• Available as an elective: Yes
• Delivered By: University of Tasmania
• Level: Advanced

Sustainable Development Goals

The Unit Coordinator has identified that this unit aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Availability

• Location: Online
• Study period: Semester 1
• Attendance options:
  • On-campus
  • Off-Campus
  • International students
  • Domestic students

Key Dates

• Study Period: Semester 1
• Start date: 23/2/2026
• Census date: 17/3/2026
• WW date: 20/4/2026
• End date: 14/6/2026

Learning Outcomes

• Describe the role of qualitative research in expanding understandings of ageing, older age, and dementia.
• Distinguish between various qualitative methodologies and their contributions to knowledge about ageing, older age, and dementia.
• Compare the different types of knowledge and evidence obtained by using qualitative and quantitative research methodologies.
• Discuss ethical and legal considerations relevant to the conduct of qualitative research with 'vulnerable' individuals or groups.
• Reflect upon how qualitative research findings can be used to enhance the quality of life of older people and people living with dementia.

Fee Information

• Field of Education:
• Commencing Student Contribution: $1,192.00
• Grandfathered Student Contribution: $1,192.00
• Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution: not applicable
• Domestic Full Fee: $1,458.00

Requisites

Prerequisites

• 50 credit points of intermediate study

Teaching

• Teaching Pattern: Online Learning - approx. 10 hours per week.
• Assessment:
  • Quiz (15%)
  • Discussion posts (20%)
  • Reflective essay (30%)
  • Presentation (35%)
• Timetable: View the lecture timetable and the full unit timetable

Textbooks

• Required: Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes.