Training

LISS conceptual, general research, and specialist training

Conceptual training

The aim is to ensure that students understand the breadth of social science methods extending beyond the qualitative/quantitative binary to (i) make informed choices about their research design (current and future); and (ii) engage critically with research outside their discipline during their doctoral training and throughout their career.

Students are expected to be able to demonstrate the following:

• comprehension of principles of research design and strategy, including an understanding of how to formulate research questions which are amenable to empirical investigation and an appreciation of alternative approaches to research;
• understanding of a broad range of research methods: quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods including awareness and understanding of AI and machine learning as research tool and the value of using existing surveys and repositories of visual, text data, social media and big data;
• understanding of appropriate data generation and use either through sampling, subject selection or via the use of secondary data from existing sources;
• understanding of analytical approaches, including data analysis software;
• understanding of the significance of alternative epistemological positions and how epistemological choices impact on findings produced;
• understanding of the application of good ethical practice across the entire research process including data ethics that is inclusive of digital approaches;
• understanding of how to conduct and disseminate research in a way that is consistent with both professional practice and the standard principles of research ethics; and
• understanding Open Science principles and practices to enhance reproducibility.

General research training

The aim is for students to have the general research skills required for postgraduate study and to equip them for their future career, whether within academia or beyond. Skills include:

• Project management
• Data management and analysis
• Ethical and legal issues
• Digital and bibliographic skills
• Language skills
• Skills for engaging with users and for maximising the impact of research
• Exploitation of research and Intellectual Property Rights (IPR)

 Specialist training

This includes in-depth subject or disciplinary methodological and theoretical training, and training and support in accessing and using ‘cutting edge’ data that supports data driven research whether qualitative or qualitative.

Research in Practice training

Research in Practice training is designed to enhance the practical application of research skills, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and support personal and professional development.

Please scroll down and click on a term to view available courses and outlines. 

LISS Writing Skills

We offer a bespoke writing skills programme for LISS researchers featuring specialised workshops, writing retreats and opportunities for individualised support and feedback from our writing professionals.

Autumn Term 2025 training programme will open on Tuesday 7th October 2025.

LISS Writing Skills Courses available to book via SkillsForge: click to log in and register

Questions? Visit our Training FAQ here: Frequently Asked Questions – LISS DTP (liss-dtp.ac.uk)

Autumn 2025 courses

• LISS401 Reading Like a Writer
• LISS402 Stylish Academic Writing
• LISS403 Writing for Visual Thinkers
• LISS411 Making the Most of Writing Time

Spring 2026 courses (to be updated)

• LISS409 Creating a Narrative through your Literature Review

Summer 2026 courses (to be updated)

• LISS402 Stylish Academic Writing
• LISS409 Creating a Narrative through your Literature Review
• LISS410 Finding Your Voice 
• LISS412 The Art and Craft of Editing