Student Assignment Brief

This document is intended for Coventry University Group students for their own use in completing their assessed work for this module. It must not be passed to third parties or posted on any website. If you require this document in an alternative format, please contact your Module Leader.

Contents:

Assignment InformationAssignment TaskMarking and FeedbackAssessed Module Learning OutcomesAssignment Support and Academic IntegrityAssessment Marking CriteriaThe work you submit for this assignment must be your own independent work, or in the case of a group assignment your own groups work. More information is available in the Assignment Task section of this assignment brief.

Assignment Information

Module Name: FORMTEXT Introduction to Qualitative Research Methods

Module Code: 4016SPS

Assignment Title: Written qualitative report.

Assignment Due: FORMTEXT 8th April 2024 at 6pm

Assignment Credit: 15 credits

Word Count (or equivalent): 1500 words 10%

Assignment Type:

Percentage Grade (Applied Core Assessment). You will be provided with an overall grade between 0% and 100%. You have one opportunity to pass the assignment at or above 40%.

Assignment Task

This coursework assignment requires you to write a 1500-word practical report summarising a piece of qualitative research that you have conducted. We will introduce the practical report, provide you with some data, and give guidance on analysis during your lectures/workshops in 4016 modules. The goal of this report is to present a written piece of work summarising your work with secondary data taken from online chat debate around the issue of choosing to not have children. You need to pick one of the two presented approaches (i.e., Those arguments FOR or AGAINST remaining childless). You are to select appropriate extracts (aim to select a few) and use these in your analysis section using the SQC model (Situation, quote, commentary).

Given the wordcount you should aim to include no more than 3 full themes-you may decide to use sub-themes, but these are not required.

Submission Instructions:

The deadline for the assignment is FORMTEXT 8th April 2024 at 6pm (24-hour grace period). Submissions will be online via a Turnitin link on the module webpage. The submission should also use the new title page/feedforward form (see Appendix). Ensure that your submission is done via MS Word or similar. Please do not submit .pdf files.

Development of Skills and Attributes

1. Investigating problems using rigorous scientific methods

2. Identifying relevant, reliable, and valid sources of information

3. Analysing and interpreting qualitative data

4. Writing clear and concise research reports and proposals

5. Synthesising and summarising complex information

Graduate attributes development:

Through teaching on this module students willdevelop their understanding of how to design, conduct and report qualitative research using a variety of data collection methods and analytical techniques. Students will also be encouraged to appreciate diversity and awareness of reflexivity.This module and assignment will allow you to develop the following Graduate Attributes:

Communicate Effectively

Act with Integrity

Adapt my Approach

Think Creatively

Marking and Feedback

How will my assignment be marked?

Your assignment will be marked by the module team

How will I receive my grades and feedback?

Provisional marks will be released once internally moderated

Feedback will be provided by the module team alongside grade release.

Your feedback can be accessed through original submission link on Turnitin.

What will I be marked against?

Details of the marking criteria for this task can be found at the bottom of this assignment brief.

Assessed Module Learning Outcomes

The Learning Outcomes for this module align to the marking criteria which can be found at the end of this brief. Ensure you understand the marking criteria to ensure successful achievement of the assessment task. The following module learning outcomes are assessed in this task:

FORMTEXT 1. The assignment satisfies the first three learning outcomes in terms of:

1. Demonstrating knowledge of how to design, conduct, and analyse the results of qualitative studies

2. Demonstrating a critical appreciation of the strengths and limitations of qualitative research methods

3. Demonstrating an understanding of ethical considerations as outlined in the British Psychological Societys Ethical Principles for Conducting Research with Human Participants as well as broader professional issues in psychological research, such as open science, replicability, and study pre-registration.

Assignment Support and Academic Integrity

If you have any questions about this assignment please see the Student Guidance on Coursework for more information.

Spelling, Punctuation, and Grammar:

You are expected to use effective, accurate, and appropriate language within this assessment task.

Academic Integrity:

The work you submit must be your own, or in the case of groupwork, that of your group. All sources of information need to be acknowledged and attributed; therefore, you must provide references for all sources of information and acknowledge any tools used in the production of your work, including Artificial Intelligence (AI).We use detection software and make routine checks for evidence of academic misconduct.

Definitions of academic misconduct, including plagiarism, self-plagiarism, and collusion can be foundon the Student Portal.All cases of suspected academic misconduct are referred for investigation, the outcomes of which can have profound consequences to your studies.For more information on academic integrity please visit theAcademic and Research Integritysection of the Student Portal.

Support for Students with Disabilities or Additional Needs:

If you have a disability, long-term health condition, specific learning difference, mental health diagnosis or symptoms and have discussed your support needs with health and wellbeing you may be able to access support that will help with your studies.

If you feel you may benefit from additional support, but have not disclosed a disability to the University, or have disclosed but are yet to discuss your support needs it is important to let us know so we can provide the right support for your circumstances. Visit the Student Portal to find out more.

Unable to Submit on Time?

The University wants you to do your best. However, we know that sometimes events happen which mean that you cannot submit your assessment by the deadline or sit a scheduled exam. If you think this might be the case, guidance on understanding what counts as an extenuating circumstance, and how to apply isavailable on the Student Portal.Administration of Assessment

Module Leader Name: Jakub Sticky

Module Leader Email: ad8542@coventry.ac.uk

Assignment Category: Written

Attempt Type: Standard

Component Code: CW

Assessment Marking CriteriaGuidance for Course Teams: Assessment criteria should align to the University-level assessment criteria for the relevant level of study. These are available through the Academic Enhancement and Professional Development website.

Important: If the assessment used is a Core (Pass/Fail) assessment then please amend the marking criteria accordingly. Guidance on the use of Core Assessment is available on the Academic Enhancement and Professional Development website.

80 to 100% 70 to 79% 60 to 69% 50 to 59% 40 to 49% Fail 0-35%

Abstract & title Exceptional level of summary of main body of the report. All salient aspects of the report are summarised and in the correct order. Title is fully reflective of the purpose, methods of the study Excellent level of summary of main body of the report. All salient aspects of the report are summarised and in the correct order. Title is mostly reflective of the purpose, methods of the study Very good summary of aspects of the report are summarised and in the correct order. Minor redundancy or excess detail evident Good summary of the report. Partially complete, clear, and accurate. One salient aspect is omitted. Excess detail and/or repetition evident. Outcomes met Outcomes not met. Limited presentation of abstract and the tile. Misrepresented and/or poorly structured summary.

Introduction Exceptional discussion of the theoretical basis and research background to the topic. Critical analysis, synthesis and evaluation of the most relevant, up-to-date literature is evident in setting up the current study rationale and research question. The research question is clearly and fully stated. It completely reflects the phenomena, qualitative approach, sample and focus of the study and is totally clear how it could be answered. Excellent discussion of the theoretical basis and research background to the topic. Critical analysis, synthesis and evaluation of the most relevant, up-to-date literature is evident in setting up the current study rationale and research question. The research question is clearly and fully stated. It completely reflects the phenomena, qualitative approach, sample and focus of the study and is totally clear how it could be answered. (18-25) Very good discussion of the theoretical basis and research background to the topic. Critical analysis, synthesis and evaluation of the most relevant, up-to-date literature is evident in setting up the current study rationale and research question. The research question is clearly and fully stated with little improvement needed. It mostly reflects the phenomena, qualitative approach, sample and focus of the study and is mostly clear how it could be answered. (18-25) Good discussion of the theoretical basis and research background to the topic. Critical analysis, synthesis and evaluation of the most relevant, up-to-date literature is somewhat evident in setting up the current study rationale and research question. The research question is somewhat clear and corresponds with the selected method of analysis. It somewhat reflects the phenomena, qualitative approach, sample and focus of the study and is mostly clear how it could be answered. Outcomes met. Very brief discussion of the theoretical basis and research background to the study. Little critical analysis, synthesis, and evaluation of key literature. The work mostly relies exclusively on dated sources or irrelevant sources. The study rationale is incoherent/ virtually missing, and there is minimal justification for the research question. The question attempts to reflect two or more of the phenomena, qualitative approach, sample and focus of the study and question may not be fully suitable. Outcomes not met. Very brief/missing discussion of the theoretical basis and research background to the study. No critical analysis, synthesis, and evaluation of key literature. The work relies exclusively on dated sources or irrelevant sources. The study rationale is incoherent/ virtually missing, and there is no/or minimal justification for the research question. The research question maybe completely incoherent. The question fails to reflect two or more of the phenomena, qualitative approach, sample and focus of the study and question is not suitable and cannot be addressed.

Methods Excellent and fully comprehensive and coherent description presented in excellent detail that will allow replication with no further questioning or clarification. The research design is described fully and accurately (including a justification for the philosophical approach taken). The description of the other sub-sections (i.e., participants, data gathering and ethics, data analysis procedures) is all succinctly described and precise. Dutiful consideration of all ethical issues associated with the study are acknowledged. Excellent and fully comprehensive and coherent description presented in excellent detail that will allow replication with no further questioning or clarification. The research design is described fully and accurately (including a justification for the philosophical approach taken). The description of the other sub-sections (i.e., participants, data gathering and ethics, data analysis procedures) is all succinctly described and precise. Dutiful consideration of all ethical issues associated with the study are acknowledged. Excellent and comprehensive and coherent description presented in very good detail that will allow replication with little to no further questioning or clarification. The research design is described fully and accurately (including a justification for the philosophical approach taken) title questioning would be needed for replication. The description of the other sub-sections (i.e., participants, data gathering and ethics, data analysis procedures) is mostly precise with some little space for improvement. Ethical issues associated with the study are acknowledged to a very good degree with specific application to the study. Good comprehensive and coherent description presented in good detail that will allow replication with some further questioning or clarification. The research design is described and relatively accurate (including a justification for the philosophical approach taken) title some non-trivial questioning would be needed for replication. The description of the other sub-sections (i.e., participants, data gathering and ethics, data analysis procedures) is somewhat precise with some space for improvement. Ethical issues associated with the study are acknowledged to a good degree/are generic and not study specific Outcomes met. Few relevant details are provided, and replication would require substantial additional questioning. The research design is somewhat inaccurate Other sub-sections (i.e., participants, data gathering and ethics, data analysis procedures) contain limited or redundant content. limited considerations of standard ethical issues. Outcomes not met. Few relevant details are provided, and replication would require substantial additional questioning. The research design is grossly inaccurate &/or missing (including justification for the philosophical approach taken). Other sub-sections (i.e., participants, data gathering and ethics, data analysis procedures) contain incoherent, limited, or redundant content. Poor consideration of standard ethical issues. (0-7)

Analysis Exceptional presentation and organisation of the analysis. The brief overview impressively captures the identified theme(s)/sub-themes and is supported by a clearly defined thematic table/map. The analysis is set out under theme sub-headings that are sensibly and meaningfully labelled. Excellent description of each theme/sub-theme fully supported by carefully chosen data extracts that are vivid, representative, and used in appropriate volume. The interpretative commentary of the theme content (i.e., data extracts used) is excellent and transparent to the reader. It is also fully relevant to answering the research question Excellent presentation and organisation of the analysis. The brief overview impressively captures the identified theme(s)/sub-themes and is supported by a clearly defined thematic table/map. The analysis is set out under theme sub-headings that are sensibly and meaningfully labelled. Excellent description of each theme/sub-theme fully supported by carefully chosen data extracts that are vivid, representative, and used in appropriate volume. The interpretative commentary of the theme content (i.e., data extracts used) is excellent and transparent to the reader. It is also fully relevant to answering the research question Very good presentation and organisation of the analysis. The brief overview mostly captures the identified theme(s)/sub-themes and is supported by a clearly defined thematic table/map. The analysis is set out under theme sub-headings that are sensibly and meaningfully labelled. Very good description of each theme/sub-theme fully supported by carefully chosen data extracts that are vivid, representative, and used in appropriate volume. The interpretative commentary of the theme content (i.e., data extracts used) is present and transparent to the reader. It is relevant to answering the research question Good presentation and organisation of the analysis. The brief overview somewhat captures the identified theme(s)/sub-themes and is supported by a clearly defined thematic table/map. The analysis is mostly set out under theme sub-headings that are sensibly and meaningfully labelled. Good description of each theme/sub-theme supported by carefully chosen data extracts that are relevant. The interpretative commentary of the theme content (i.e., data extracts used) is present and transparent to the reader. It is somewhat relevant to answering the research question Outcomes met. The brief overview is present with the omission of the thematic table/map. The attempt at the analysis is done to a fair degree with. Theme identification is lacking with inappropriate labelling and description is somewhat misleading. Minimal or excessive data extracts are used but appropriately (e.g., paraphrased). The commentary is superficial (e.g., describing only the data). Outcomes not met. Limited analysis. The brief overview is missing, along with the omission of the thematic table/map. The attempt at the analysis is incoherent. Theme identification is lacking with inappropriate labelling and description is misleading. Minimal or excessive data extracts are used but inappropriately (e.g., paraphrased). The commentary is superficial (e.g., describing only the data).

Discussion Exceptional all-round discussion of the meaning of the study findings. The summary of the key findings is clear, concise, and precise. There is a clear, intelligent, and comprehensive account of how the findings relate to relevant theory and the extant literature reviewed on the topic. Identification and a succinct explanation of the most pertinent study implications (e.g., theoretical, practical), limitations (e.g., qualitative approach taken) and future directions. A short conclusion with a clear take-home message Excellent all-round discussion of the meaning of the study findings. The summary of the key findings is clear, concise, and precise. There is a clear, intelligent, and comprehensive account of how the findings relate to relevant theory and the extant literature reviewed on the topic. Identification and a succinct explanation of the most pertinent study implications (e.g., theoretical, practical), limitations (e.g., qualitative approach taken) and future directions. A short conclusion with a clear take-home message. Very good discussion of the meaning of the study findings. The summary of the key findings is mostly clear, concise, and precise. There is a mostly clear, intelligent, and comprehensive account of how the findings relate to relevant theory and the extant literature reviewed on the topic. Identification and a succinct explanation of the most pertinent study implications (e.g., theoretical, practical), limitations (e.g., qualitative approach taken) and future directions. A short conclusion with a clear take-home message. Good discussion of the meaning of the study findings. The summary of the key findings is somewhat clear. There is a somewhat clear, intelligent, and comprehensive account of how the findings relate to relevant theory and the extant literature reviewed on the topic. Identification and a succinct explanation of the most pertinent study implications (e.g., theoretical, practical), limitations (e.g., qualitative approach taken) and future directions is present, but limited in scope. A short conclusion with a clear take-home message may be present. Outcome met. The summary and interpretation of the findings is coherent. Implications (e.g., theoretical, practical), limitations (e.g., qualitative approach taken) and future directions are somewhat lacking/ entirely basic Outcomes not met. Limited discussion. The summary and interpretation of the findings is incoherent. Implications (e.g., theoretical, practical), limitations (e.g., qualitative approach taken) and future directions are severely lacking, entirely basic/ exhaustive (as is the overall conclusion).

General Exceptional attention to grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Academic writing style is entirely appropriate. General presentation and ordering of sections, including table/figure formatting and use of (sub)headings, adheres to APA style. References and in-text citations are fully congruent with or APA7 formatting style. Excellent attention to grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Academic writing style is entirely appropriate. General presentation and ordering of sections, including table/figure formatting and use of (sub)headings, adheres to APA style. References and in-text citations are fully congruent with or APA7 formatting style. Very good attention to grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Academic writing style is mostly appropriate with minor changes needed. General presentation and ordering of sections, including table/figure formatting and use of (sub)headings, adheres to APA style in most cases. References and in-text citations are congruent with or APA7 formatting style with minor omissions. Good attention to grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Academic writing style is somewhat appropriate with changes needed. General presentation and ordering of sections, including table/figure formatting and use of (sub)headings, adheres to APA style in some cases. References and in-text citations are congruent with or APA7 formatting style with some omissions. General presentation and ordering of sections, including table/figure formatting and use of (sub)headings, adheres to APA style in limited cases. References and in-text citations are congruent with or APA7 formatting style with significant omissions. General presentation and ordering of sections, including table/figure formatting and use of (sub)headings, does not adhere to APA style in limited cases. References and in-text citations are not congruent with or APA7 formatting style.

Contextualisation

We will use a dataset on the topic of adults who have chosen to be childfree. The dataset consists of Facebook comments related to a clip posted on the official Facebook page of a New Zealand current affairs show, Seven Sharp. At the time of the post, Seven Sharp positioned itself as having a goal to keep you informed, discuss what you're discussing but never take ourselves too seriously. They broadcast weekly in a prime-time 7pm slot on mainstream television. This particular Seven Sharp story raised the issue of choosing to not have children. In the few minutes of the pre-recorded short film, it briefly introduced the perspectives and experiences of one single woman, and one straight couple, who have made deliberate choices not to have children. Ginny is one member of the couple. The reporter (a woman) contextualised how difficult this choice can be, especially for women, by presenting evidence of the abuse women who are childfree have received. After the film ran, the two studio hosts discussed it. The clip included the (male) main Seven Sharp host, Mike Hosking, dismissing the perspectives expressed, and stating that the people interviewed were clueless/deluded. He evidenced his position by stating how great being a father (to many children) is, but that he used to think the same way as the people in the story.

The story aired in late March 2014, and the Facebook comments were compiled two days after the clip was posted on the Seven Sharp Facebook site. The dataset comprises all postings over the 48-hour period after the video link to the story was posted to capture the full scope of commentary and debate. A total of 187 posts were made over this timeframe, made up of 151 comments, 35 replies (a comment in response to someone elses comment), and 1 posted link. The negative features that can be part of online comments, such as trolling (Mkono, 2018) were occasionally apparent, but most posts were on topic. Posts ranged in length from a few words to multiple paragraphs. Each post is presented after an anonymised code, made up of four capitalised letters, which replaces the commenters Facebook username.

We cannot know much about the commenters and what preceded their posting. Some may have watched this broadcast and come to the site to comment; others may have watched it via the Seven Sharp Facebook site; some may not have watched it at all (Tait, 2016). Who the commenters are is unknown, and again we can only speculate although it does not seem unreasonable to assume that most of them are people who follow the Seven Sharp Facebook page. Beyond that presumption which itself would need empirical verification we have no way of knowing anything demographically about them. Any identity information we have depends on claims or indicators of identity in their posts (e.g. gendered names, discussion of having children). But as we know displayed online identity doesnt always match offline identity, we cannot treat those as truth. For the purpose of our analysis, this doesnt really matter, because were not tagging meaning to who said what or the identity categories they might belong to. Instead, our focus is on the meanings expressed in the comments.

The dataset

The dataset that appears below has been edited by Shanuki Jayamaha, to increase readability. Specifically, all spellings of words have been corrected, acronyms, abbreviations and numbers have been spelled out, some punctuation has been added, such as periods, and ellipses have replaced all variations of a series of periods. Emoticons have been replaced with a text-based description.

There are three components for each data item in this readability version.

A Facebook user-name, that we have anonymised (e.g., META).

The persons post.

Whether the data item is an original comment or a reply to someone elses comment. Inclusion of (Edited) captures the posters own editing of their contribution.

Poster Post Post Type

METAPeople should just respect other's choices, we all choose our own paths. Comment

CAHO Having had three kids and two stepkids I say get a dog. Reply

DEMO Im the same I now have two dogs, nine grandchildren. Reply

FIMA Why do people think it's selfish not having children? It's no one else's business!! Comment

CHCA Why do people assume that choosing to be childfree automatically means that you won't have children in your life? My partner and I have decided not to have kids for a range of personal, environmental and social reasons. But I am a Godmother, an aunt, an older cousin, and a friend to many children. Contrary to common misconception those who choose not to have kids are rarely lonely, just more self-aware. In many cases those who choose not to have kids have usually thought a lot more about that decision than those who reproduce. Comment

DARE Very, very well said. Clearly you have never had baby brain. Reply

MACL And conversely, in many cases those who choose to have children have thought a lot more about that decision than those who choose not to have children. We're an ageing society And I think parents are pretty self aware as our children's behaviour is reflected right back at us. For better or for worse. Reply

GRKO Lets not forget those who would die to have kids of their own, but for one reason or another cant Comment (Edited)

DARE Agreed. The pity is there's no shortage of people who shouldn't have kids. Should almost have to take a pill TO have a kid. Reply

SHHA I think you have to want to and be prepared for the challenge ahead. Those who dont have kids might have other goals they want to achieve good for them Im not hating and I wouldnt change my life for anything my daughter did it for me and I am grateful [smiley face emoji] Comment

MAMC Not many people plan to have kids hehe and when they plan it usually doesnt happen [smiley face emoji] Reply

NAMI It's selfish to spread your legs and expect everyone else to pay for your kids through welfare!!! Why should I pay for someone else's kids when I choose not to have any of my own. I'm tired of being taxed and seeing it go to someone who doesn't deserve it But I also see families that do need help and do deserve it. Comment

TIJA Hear hear! Agree totally! Reply

BRMA Better not to have kids than have trophy kids and dump them in childcare from seven am to six pm every day and then say I'm too busy to come to special events. Poor sprogs, selfish parents. Comment

HATU Yep seen plenty of those kids, in fact seen a lot of very bad parenting along the way too, gosh it frightens me at these kids are going to be the next generation, bunch of spoilt brats!! By the way I have three well rounded kids and love being a mum!! Reply

SARO Some people are child orientated, others aren't. Its as simple as that. Comment

SARO Its also a lifestyle choice people make, more money and luxury, or the ups and downs a family brings along with different social skills needed. Comment

RITA My wife and I are not having kids, we do what we want, when we want how we want and we always have money always. Comment

CLPR Grandkids are your reward for not strangling your kids. Comment

JOWI My husband and I chose not to have children and have never regretted this decision. The majority of our friends have no children and we all have brilliant fulfilled lives. It is a personal choice, respect it! Comment

SAWH No kids for us and we are fine with that it's our choice!!! I laugh when people say there won't be anyone to look after us when were old, because let's face it people how many of you are really going to look after your ageing parents and by that I mean not putting them in a rest home!!! Comment

ANLI I will look after mine. They are amazing parents and it's the least I can do. Tis the natural order. Reply

DARE Its a sad old argument isn't it? That I should breed humans to take care of me in my old age? Absolute pish. Reply

SAWH Don't get me wrong my parents have been amazing but me having to care for them when they can't I'm sorry but I'm honest it's not for me! Comment

HEWI Don't have kids and do not regret our decision not to! But love our nieces and nephews to bits! Comment

JAOB Children AREN'T for everyone never have been. It's purely a personal choice and some people who choose to become parents should have thought far more about WHY they had their children. I love my children, but they have always been loved and cared for, fed, clothed and taught well. This is not always the case. Comment (Edited)

GLSH Isn't it funny how most of the judgemental comments seem to be coming from people with kids. I cannot understand why we cannot all respect each others decisions, each to their own I say. Comment

JATH I am nearly thirty-nine years old. I have no children and that was by choice. Never wanted any, never will. I have nieces and nephews that I love. I have had other females tell me I must be abnormal and weird and it makes me steam. Ive got my own mind and I will do as I want. And nothing I do, or will do in the future involves having kids. No way. Comment

RITA Five point three billion humans on this planet putting it under so much pressure so really who's being selfish. Comment

PADU We had decided not to have children, until oops we got pregnant. Was the best thing we ever did, we were both in our thirties so decided just to have the one. I wish we had done it earlier so we could have had more. Anyway feel so blessed to have our one son [smiley face emoji] Comment

KAHA My husband and I dont have kids and dont want kids. We're happy being the aunty and uncle who buys the cool gifts. Comment

JOAS I never wanted kids Then my first was born He was so perfect, such a miracle that I made a human wow!I thought I knew love but he showed me what it really felt to love someone with all the love I had. Now I have three and as stressful as it can be it's amazing.I am never lonely, I'm loved everyday, I have a purpose in life.Sure it would be great to be rich but love is worth more than any material object on earth.I didn't want kids but I'm glad I accidentally got pregnant. It's one if those things you don't know what you were missing until you have it [smiley face emoji] Comment

EVDO Well that was one sided As is the situation. Women who don't want children are the ones being judged! Seems that it's okay if a man doesn't want children, but you're seen as less of a woman if you don't want them. Comment

PAMA The world is so over populated already, so if people choose not to have kids, they are not being selfish at all. Maybe having lots of kids is the selfish thing these days ? Each to their own I say. Comment

ALBR Good on you if you have kids and good on you if you don't! No screaming menace small humans for me anytime soon. Comment

JAWE "screaming menace small humans" shit I wonder where on earth you were brought up [sad face emoji] Reply

CLGR ^ Usually people like you that have those kids. Reply

ALBR Haha JAWE I was brought up about an hour north of Auckland. I was taught manners, to be respectful to all beings and to be non judgmental. I was brought up very very well Ill have you know. Reply

MAHA We don't have children through choice, neither are we wage slaves. I am forty-six and at no stage have I regretted being childless. It feels normal for us. What doesn't feel normal is the inability of others to accept our choice. Personally I made the choice at the age of thirty. It was an expectation that was placed upon me by others and myself that I would be a mum. It was such a relief to me when I made the choice. Comment

MARM I call myself childfree rather than childless I think it sounds more positive [smiley face emoji] Reply

ZAJO A relationship without kids sucks! Grow up people. Only people who have no confidence and can't handle responsibilities will prefer no kids! You were a kid one day and a couple your parents brought you to this life, you didn't come from nowhere. Kids makes life more enjoyable and will learn how to handle responsibility. If you know how to raise them up. You will have someone later who will clean your shit and take care of you when you grow older. No career and no money and no travel will benefit you when you are OLD. It's your kids who you raised up properly and spent quality time with them will benefit you. What do you want a couple working like robots and earning money? This is DISGUSTING. There is no life without kids! People who cannot handle kids are MENTAL and they need help. There is no bad children, it's US who can raise them up good or bad and it's the parents responsibility. Coming back from work and finding your little ones waiting - worth more than a career and money and travel. Comment (Edited)

DARE "You will have someone later who will clean your shit and take care of you when you grow older." Boy, that's a considered approach to bringing a child into the world. Is that what you've told your kids they have to look forward to? Is that the aspirations you have for your children? To be the ass wipers of the previous generation? THAT'S DISGUSTING. "There is no bad children " Really? What colour candyfloss is the sky made of in your world? Bailey Junior Kuariki (twelve), Teina Pora (seventeen) - ring any bells? Spin your rhetoric to their victims, I dare you. Go sit on the timeout step and think about what you've just said. You're clear evidence that the ability to breed doesn't mean it should happen. Reply (Edited)

MARM Sad that you think children are the only thing worth living for especially if when the time comes (and youve spent all your time and money on them) they put you in a home and never visit. Reply

KIFO Everyone has the right to choose how to live their life. Its not unnatural, unloving or selfish. Its a very personal decision - great story thanks! Comment

MIBE Feel for those men and women who really want children but can't have them. I'm delighted for men and women who love children and enjoy being parents, despite the additional pressures and trials they go though. It disgusts me when anyone judges, condemns or questions a man or woman's decision to not have children. Someone earlier mentioned "the one with the uterus decides". I do believe the man in a partnership should have some say, after all it's a massive, long term, and costly role being a parent, and teamwork makes any job easier. ;-) I personally like the idea of being a parent but recognised very early on that I had too much of a temper, and that my moods were too up and down. I seriously looked at myself like giving myself a warrant of fitness for parenting, and declined the warrant. Twenty years on, having learnt about myself and how I work, I'm in a position to help my friends significantly by caring for their kids for school holidays and when they're struggling. It gives me immense pleasure to help friends and to be part of these growing individuals but I've never doubted my decision all those years ago. Marrying a man with an existing vasectomy protected me from my own body's urges to reproduce. I'm grateful that I had that foresight. I suspect I would be a mother of two at very least if not for that. I make an awesome part time, respite care mum, but I know my limits. There are so many amazing parents out there. Sadly there are also some appalling parents out there. My only judgement on the world is that I wish more men and women would give themselves a warrant of fitness before becoming a parent. It's such a huge responsibility, and it's for a very long time. A very interesting read. Comment

CAVI I don't see how this is newsworthy? Comment

JEHA Seven Sharp isn't really a news programme more like a social commentary that is sometimes about events that have been in the news sometimes not. Reply

ANMA Not my uterus, not my business! As long as you don't call me a breeder and make rude comments because I wanted kids young. Comment

DEBA My partner and I have been together thirty-two years - no children and we both love it! We are not shrivelled up selfish misfits! We have fur babies who we love to bits but who don't limit our enjoyment of the things we love doing. I am fifty-eight and still ride my horses - I am intending to compete my five year old next year and another baby the year after! In comparison to others of my age (who have had children) I have a life, I enjoy my sports I am very fit and strong and I look twenty years younger! What a great decision! Comment (Edited)

JOMC It's harder than we thought but worth it, for us! We've had our two daughters, just four and eighteen months old, later in life I'm forty-seven and my partner is forty-one So we did a lot of living, much of it selfish only worried about ourselves So it is harder than we thought and there are changes we've had to make, but it's been our choice and we accept we'll be a bit older than many of our children's friends parents, but we are ready only now for this stage our of lives and they will keep us young! Life is all about choices, and we feel lucky we did in fact have this choice Many don't. Comment

JATH I hear that!!! It pisses me right off when I get told "you'll change your mind" like I don't know my own thoughts. I "know" what I do and don't want. And I definitely didn't want to raise bloody kids!!! Comment

CLGR I'm so sick of people saying, "You'll change your mind" when I say I don't want kids. I want to travel, have a career and have nice things so no kids for me. Comment (Edited)

SUHA Im forty-five years old and never wanted kids, but have ended up with three stepkids Love my man enough to live with his kids [smiley face emoji] Comment

TIJA Similar situation for me too SUHA. my wife came with three adult stepkids and two grandies. They are great, but drive us nuts at times too! Reply

WAFL Some couples can't have kids; no choice involved, it's just fate Comment

MAEL I have one beautiful boy, I only ever wanted one and I love him to pieces I now have three additional stepsons, we have our ups and downs but do I regret it? Gosh no, they all (including my own) drive me CRAZY some days and I need time out, but isn't that parenting? I would not change things, however, I do not judge those who chose not to. It is our right to choose what is right for us and it could be kids, it may be the child free life. Rather we make the right decision than one that you cannot alter (for example, having kids you don't want) and then make the WRONG decisions. Comment

WAMO I know at least a dozen kiwi guys in their forties who would love to find someone kiwi to settle down and have kids with, but it's unfortunate the only ones who want to do that are foreigners Generations of kiwi women wanting to be men, or trying to be solo mum as paid full time employment, because it's equal to mans job in pay, have killed the traditional family structure of this society.These childless couples will just depend on everyone elses kids for welfare when they get older! Comment

RALA After earning their own money and paying their taxes for years? Are they not entitled to do so? Plenty of people out there having kids who have never paid a cent towards society but feel free to bleed it dry so this argument goes both ways! Reply

HEST Or WAMO - these childless couples have actually had successful careers, provided for themselves, contributed endlessly to society through their taxes or volunteering in, supporting education, healthcare and welfare which they haven't needed to use because they pay for it privately. We still choose to support our society because we want to live in an amazing country that provides endless opportunity (and believe me this country offers plenty of it!). Everyone has choices use your human rights and personal values to make conscious decisions - people need to accept their choices and not contribute to a blame culture. Reply

MARM Hey, I pay my taxes for other peoples kids to use for example, education, healthcare, welfare etcetera. so they can support me in my (childfree) old age. Reply

CHSO Love love love my kids, they drive me insane sometimes, but wouldn't want it any other way, never have enough money but they always make me smile (LOL, most of the time!!!!!!) I would be totally lost without them. Comment

JHOR Everyone loves "making" them though aye? Comment

LIMC Definitely a personal/relationship choose!! And I don't think anyone should judge another persons choice for having kids or not!! I have four beautiful kids and that was my choice in life! I also know many who have chosen not to have kids. Each to their own no biggie. No debate really. Comment

RADE I wish I could have children but I can't because I have a rare syndrome called Cri Du Chat or Cry of the Cat or 5P- or CDC for short but I am a mosaic which means some of my cells are affected. I can pass on my syndrome to my children and I have seen first-hand what my syndrome can do and I don't want that for my children. I love children and I volunteer at the YMCA two mornings a week. I also have two wonderful nephews and a niece as well and adoption is out of the question and I have a kitten called Fanta and she is my fur baby and she adores my partner to pieces also. When he comes over to see me she will run to him and purr. Before you judge anyone on not wanting children maybe just listen to their story of why they don't want children or just can't have them. Comment

WESK To have kids, or to not have kids, it's each persons decision to make, and only their decision. No one has the right to try force either choice. Good on those who do, and good on those who don't. Comment

JAKE Kids or no kids. Just be happy. Comment

DIWH Having children will test and teach you things that you never knew about yourself. I respect anyone's decision not to have children. We had children young, we only brought our house four years ago, brought a business one year ago and we only just took our children on their first overseas holiday, oldest child being almost fourteen. After twenty years it has been a tough road, but it is about relationships and not about the money and how far you are going to get in life without kids, at the end of the day you can't take all that with you. We can all make choices, but my kids will be in the workforce in the next ten years working ten times harder than anyone right now to support the ever so aging population with no kids! No offence to anyone of course, but it is the reality. Start saving! Comment

DARE Congratulations on what you've achieved, but what tired rhetoric you've bought into - like so many others. By the time my generation retires, taxes paid now or in the future won't even provide a dry biscuit. If you believe otherwise, you haven't been listening to the economists and social commentators telling us we can no longer rely on the government social system funded by taxes. Don't think for a moment that the present generation breeding does the retiring-generation-in-waiting any favours - certainly not to the point where they should be grateful. Only places stress on (and creates competition for) the resources, services and infrastructure they each have to share. I'm afraid it is about the money as much as the quality of life you want to enjoy throughout life as much as towards the end of it. Reply (Edited)

MEFO I am proud to say I never want kids. I respect those who do and have. It's a personal choice. What difference does it make to YOU (society) if there are people out there who don't want kids? I don't go round calling people who have had kids weird, so what gives YOU the right to make that judgement?! Comment

JOWI And as my husband says, unfortunately there are a number of wee ones out there whose parents don't appreciate them that we may be able to help if we change our minds or if one needs us. Comment

DOAT I have chosen not to have kids, I even had to fight with the health system to have my tubes tide. I enjoy my life and don't regret it. Comment

SIMA The world has far too many people! Good on those who don't want kids they should be applauded. Comment (Edited)

BRDU There are folks who would love to have children but nature is against them. Having science to intervene can be okay if you can afford it but for others just take things in their stride and enjoy the company of nieces and nephews which means a lot. I am okay with this and we just have each other me and my guy. Comment

JOBR Um SUST some of us would love to have the choice. Comment

SHHO Its a choice, why have kids if you cant afford them. Too many hungry children going to school without food. Comment

JAWE Speaking of going to school!!! did you? Reply

KEWI To have babies or not to have babies?That is the real question.How about meeting couples who are childless and hating it. Comment

DIWO ZAJO you are the biggest loser I have ever heard, you obviously have a fear of being alone. Child free is great! I love kids, but do not have any, I shouldn't be made to feel bad because I have none. Comment

KIJU It's a choice.If someone wants or doesn't want them, respect that. Comment

AMAY Each to their own I say [smiley face emoji] Im not sure why it would the business of anyone else to judge why or why not you will or won't have children. My husband and I have three children and for us, our life feels completed with them. Its the little things that I couldn't imagine experiencing without them. Things that only a parent will notice [smiley face emoji] I am very happy with my choice to have my beautiful children [smiley face emoji] Comment

VIQU A complete non-story. Did it have any point? Comment

JEHA Not really a story, more a point on the pressures of modern society. Reply

ANWH My partner and I decided long ago we didnt want kids. I have nieces I love to bits but I still dont want my own kids. Ive seen people have kids and regret it and others who have them and dont regret it so I say each to their own. Comment

SYCO If people chose not to have kids, NOBODY has the right to judge them having no kids definitely doesn't make a person less significant in this world nor does having kids makes a person more significant. Comment

DARE Baby brain and a life of servitude? No thanks. World's full of sheep (followers) and breeders - often difficult to tell the difference. Would like to think my intelligence extends past breeding. Selfish to choose not to have children? I call it considered. No more selfish than the breeder-centric systems in society that provide preferences and benefits for breeders.Parental leave and tax breaks?? - what happened to planning? How is it right that an employer has to make arrangements and keep the role because of a choice someone makes? Doesn't happen if I want to do something. And why do my taxes pay for your decision to breed?Domestic leave is of little use to anyone without children. Where's my opportunity to be away from work because my rat (that I chose to have) has a runny nose?Hundreds of thousands in student loans are dished out, seemingly without a requirement to pay it back when the recipient decides to bugger off overseas. Where is my opportunity to rort a similar system. Good on you parents for instilling your values of obligation. Who picks up the tab? We all do. And don't tell me I should be grateful for todays children keeping me in my old age - fiscally or physically. What old-thinking and flawed rhetoric. Is that a reason for breeding? is that what a child has to look forward to? THAT'S selfish. I prefer (and feel an obligation) to exercise some personal responsibility.We have been told time and again that the taxes paid now and in the future won't be sufficient to keep us so we need to make provisions for ourselves. Increased population only serves to put pressure on resources and services - basic economics. If you believe otherwise you haven't been paying attention to the economic forecasters and social commentators. Comment (Edited)

ANBE It's YOUR life - do what YOU want!!! What's right for one isn't necessarily right for another! [smiley face emoji] Comment

CHOY I was eighteen when I had my first and ten months later I had another one. By the time I was twenty-six I had four children. Then when I was thirty-eight I had another and forty-one I had my last son. I love children. But I can see why people don't want children today. It is their choice. Comment

ROAR Get divorced, best of both worlds. Comment

DARE Or save the lawyers fees and find someone you hate, buy them a house and give them half your stuff. ha haaaa. Reply (Edited)

PEAU Other people's kids will one day fund my retirement with their taxes. I'm very grateful for their future contribution. Comment

DARE Really? You believe that? In spite of all the advice from social commentators and economic forecasters that tell us we have to make provision for ourselves? So your retirement plan relies solely on the existence of government superannuation. Baaaaa (goes the other sheep in the pen). Reply

NAHO You were all children once Comment

JEMA I would love to raise children [tears of joy face emoji] Comment

CHBR I would love to have children. Comment

KEHE Love it [NAME] that made me laugh I love our boys but man I'd kill for a twenty-four hour period [winking face emoji] though that said could be risky we may get a bit excited and make a third though I think we would probably just sleep for the lot of it [smiley face emoji] total respect for people who choose not because they don't want them [smiley face emoji] Comment

LUSM Wife and I staying kid free for at least the next three-four years. Can't afford them [confused face emoji] besides I come from eleven kids, no big rush. Comment

STGO For me, just watching others who have kids seems like a pain in the ass So no kids for me. Happier life plus less wasting your money on toys etcetera. Comment

CORI This story would've been helpful three kids ago. Comment

LIMA Kids are not for everyone. Freedom of choice in the Free World. Comment

JEFA I was child free for forty-eight hours at a special needs Moms retreat, it was so fabulous! Comment

VIMC ZAJO - what do a troll's babies look like? Are they cute? Comment

TRAS There are positives and negatives to both I reckon I chose to only have one child, and today he's being an a- hole! Enjoy your child free status, and tomorrow when he is being a darling, I will enjoy being a Mum! Comment

SHKI I made three more of me. The planet should thank me. Comment

STMI Good on you Cous, you're not childless though, look how many cousins, nieces etcetera that you have. Comment

GAHE Having kids is the best thing ever, but it's a personal choice. Not having kids certainly frees up your life. It's nobody's business but your own. Comment

TESI This planet is far too over populated ADOPT if you feel the need. Comment

SASE Each to his/her own. I wouldn't condemn anyone or judge anyone for the decision not to have children even knowing how much value is added to my own life through the joy of having my own children. Everyone's situation is unique. On the same token I don't appreciate individual's negative or nasty comments about people who do have children when they have no way of knowing what the experience of actually having them is like. Comment

AIGR Well that's nice. Comment

BEJO At forty-two we don't have kids and wouldn't change it. Love my nephews but love I can give them back. Mike [Hosking, the show host] do you love having eight kids (five of your own) at home right now cause your wife's there looking after them while you're at work? Comment

TUMI I have friends that dont want children, our elderly neighbour chose to not have children. I find she and my friends are just as I am being a mother. Our neighbour even loves spoiling my kids [smiley face emoji] Comment

IRDE Thinking this very question at the moment actually. Comment

WAMO The taxes you pay now will be worthless in tomorrows dollars. Comment

JOHO As a coincidence of timing I saw part of this. That Hoskins shouldn't push his stupid opinion in this matter. It's up to the specific couple to decide to even contemplate having children. Can't you get that guy off this program? He's like a Paul Henry [another high-profile TV host], terribly annoying. Comment

ROHA Fascinating being newly single and not keen on kids in my mid-thirties The snip sounds utterly sensible. Comment

RALO Travelled the world several times! Didn't want kids till I was thirty! We now have two kids (eleven and thirteen - girl and a boy) two dogs and a pet rat!! I'm from the United Kingdom and husband from the United States of America but met in New Zealand! Very happy! Comment

REMA Each to their own really, and sometimes you don't have a choice. Comment

JAFO I didn't want kids. Didn't like babies. No interest at all. Ended up with three gorgeous sons. Two not exactly planned All within four and a half years. Am incredibly grateful. Feel for people that don't get to experience that sort of love. Comment

SAMA We have three and I sometimes wonder why. Comment

RITA Don't think Ill be lonely at sixty [NAME]. Comment

JAWE I agree about the respect others choices etcetera, but having a strong maternal instinct, from a very young age I just don't understand women who don't want babies [sad face emoji] (I didn't start early by the way - kept it under control with pets till age twenty-six). Comment

KRKH Don't have any regrets having two children of my own at all. Been on the bones of our arse for years, but it's worth it. Having them early means when they are old enough to look after themselves, see you later kids were off. Comment

REST I love my two boys and wouldn't have it any other way, I've learnt more about life in the last nearly four years than I have the rest, but I have always wanted kids. Don't have them if you don't want them, it's not fair on anyone. Comment

MABR I have five kids that are now adults and love them dearly but my god we could have been rich, rich without them LOL. Comment

JEMA If I stay with the guy I recently met, I know I'm not having any more kids. Its a relief actually, not worrying about getting pregnant. Comment

DAHO So? *yawns* Comment

MAWA Didnt like them when I was one. Most people I know with them wish they didnt. Fur babies better will never tell you they hate you then expect you to hand over money. Comment

MAMC Dont know I had two. Don't think Ill bring more into this weird warped place. I mean look at New Zealand right now its a no-no for me at the moment. Still doing my sentence another eleven years and Im free-ish LOL. Comment (Edited)

LIPO I was a door to door salesman in NSW [New South Wales] in nineteen-ninety-three, I havent been invited to an twenty-firsts yet, touch wood. Comment

LIPO I cant afford them, many others cant either, doesnt seem to stop them from having them. Comment

CAOD Well done LIPO. Reply

DEHO I have been trying to have kids with different partners. Too bad they don't know I can produce them LOL ohh well Ill keep on trying. Reply

MIKA Love being a parent. Challenge is vital to human evolution. Comment

LUCO Seriously don't know how mums and dads do it Really I take my hat off to you. Comment

JEMA Not loving it! Comment

CAAL Respect for other's choices. Comment

MANI Choose your own path wisely children are awesome and time consuming expensive and worth every penny love them all to bits Comment

HOKI Don't end up regretting it? Comment

ZAJO DARE you were a child one day and you probably had heaps of problems in your childhood too. I think there is no other thing. Go and get a pet who you can handle better than a human [smiley face emoji]. This is the LIFE, it's not right without kids [smiley face emoji]. Life is GIVE AND TAKE. You clean their shit and take care of them when they are babies and they will do this in return when you are OLD, but I think you will not be able to handle this. It's shame on your parents who brought you to this life. It's their mistake [smiley face emoji] Comment (Edited)

DARE You're a clear idiot. Actually you've assumed I neither have or had children nor have anything to do with children. Simply a different path than you've chosen, and one I (like many others) much prefer. A typically emotive reaction. Good luck in your little narrow existence. Reply (Edited)

ZAJO @DIWO you better look for a psychic who help you with your situation. Literally, you don't love kids and just admit it, and that's why there is something mentally wrong with you. I'm sure you have had hard times in your childhood and that's why! Try to get a child this if you can then you will notice how life is beauty [smiley face emoji] Comment

DARE Idiot. reply

DOTH Of course it is personal choice. One negative of not having kids though is that when you die, there is nothing left behind. You might as well have never existed. Comment

ALRO The worlds overpopulated as it is LOL. Comment

MIVA Respect Comment

ELBR I think that there is beauty in children, their innocence, the love of life, and the knowledge that the children are the future of the world. But we also are in a world where we face overpopulation in many countries. It takes a balance of people having children, and people choosing not to have kids to ensure the survival of our planet. Nature has put in place ways for us to ensure its survival, in our desires to procreate (or not). And even those who cannot have kids can still adopt children. It's a personal choice. Comment

DOAT Hi after all said and done, this is my husband [NAME] speaking on my page. One, is only one but life is your choice. Comment

TRBA I think its absolutely a personal choice. If you choose to have kids that's great. Its the hardest and most wonderful thing I've ever done. But if you don't want kids there's no shame in that. It doesn't make you abnormal. I think the worst thing that could happen is people who don't want them have them. Make your own choice and never mind the busy bodies. Comment

ZAJO MUSO see what some stupid people says. Comment (Edited)

ZAJO Stupid mentality. Comment

DARE Idiot Reply

HABL It is simple really if you don't want to have kids that is your choice however if you change your mind later don't expect the taxpayer to pay for IVF etcetera.I would conclude with let yeah who is prefect case the first stone. Comment

RAIS As a lot of people said, it's everyone's choice. We have one four year old and that's the best gift we ever had. She comes before anyone. We put our life on hold to take care of her needs and absolutely love it. That's what's our parents did for us and theirs for them. We believe in unconditional love and sacrifices and that creates very strong family bond. As for some said kids are waste of money, that saddens me. To my wife and I, the love we get from our daughter is priceless. All the money we make we spend a whole lot of it on our daughter, our parents and family members who have hard lives. Maybe that's why God gives us more and blesses us with happiness. Comment

JOAS Environmentally - if you bring your kids up to care about the earth and kind to others then you are doing the earth a favour by having them [smiley face emoji] Comment

NICR What was the name of the person mentioned at the end regarding having had a kid and then realising it was the worst decision she'd ever made? Comment

DEWE Its surely a choice, some choose to have kids. Comment

WOHU Aye Pfft. Kids are awesome. Comment

MIWE We are hopefully going to have kids - who will later on in life contribute to our and everyone else's pension. What do people without kids contribute? Comment

MARM Umm we contribute our taxes to everyone elses kids education, healthcare etcetera so thats a stupid argument. Reply

DARE Really MIWE? You actually believe that? Reply (Edited)

SUDU I wonder if these people who do not want children realize that there will be no grandchildren Love my kids and love my grandies more. Comment

MIHO Gosh I get it. Wouldn't give my two boys back but sure changes your life. I say respect all. Why would they have kids if they don't want them. Comment

SHHO What? @ JAWE you dont even know me, do you speak three languages? I guess not. Comment

DEWO Lonely at Christmas when you are sixty I bet!! Comment

SHAY Lucky buggers :( Comment

TOCO Will I suppose if we all did that we would be a dying race. Comment

CALO By choosing not to have children, you're depriving yourself of the greatest love of all. Comment

SHMU I had my son at nineteen Im now twenty-one an Im having a sixth month break without my son and my days feel longer and meaningless. Comment

JION They don't know what they are missing out on. Comment

DEUR Also having kids in New Zealand means they only have access from birth to be half a person in Aussie land at least if they are born in North America or Europe they access to five hundred million and three hundred million odd people more options! To make money than living here! New Zealand is great but from a trying to get ahead point of view it's not the place for that! Comment

TAST Slow news day I see. Comment

AMAR And there are singles who are loving a hassle free time too! Of course possible downside is never a mum or grand mum. There's no guarantee your kids would honour you or want to help anyway. Comment

DEPA I have often wondered how nice this would be - free - charm and lots more money freedom to travel and never have to be home in time for school - sounds wonderful. Comment

CHFR We all have choices, but personally even through bad times, they do pass and the results are amazing. The grandchildren make life really worthwhile - the kids - well I think perhaps I should have put two legs in one pantyhose! Comment

LYMC That was very interesting. Comment

MEMI No I wouldnt because children cost too much money to cloth feed, educate. Why have babies when we have a rich kid hating government. If I had the money I would get my tubes tied. Comment (Edited)

MOCU Children need both parents while they still young Comment

MSND They probably are dog or cat owners thinking they are parents to them both because that's their children LOLs. And there is nothing wrong if those child free couples don't want to have babies, but they can always change their own minds afterwards, when they found out their own time clock of Mother/Fatherhood has run out'. Because it does! But no worries there is always Adoption [smiley face emoji] Comment

WAJA WHO CARES Comment

STCO Don't have kids!!!!! unless they're like mine!! Comment

JIAD I don't have any kids - I do have four children, they are lovely youngsters and I am proud of them all - and yes, I tell them how much I love them all the time. There is nothing they can do to hurt or upset me, and they can come home to a warm welcome anytime, our house is their house. Comment

SUST They will regret it in later years when they have no offspring to leave anything to, including a lifetimes worth of invaluable knowledge. Comment

DEUR In a place like New Zealand depends if you can afford it? And also the fact that the kids miss out on access to other country's! New Zealand is still very isolated! Comment

MAWI Mine have grown and left home, I'm free. Comment

LIPO Gulp. Who's going to look after us when we get old? Comment

MARM I'll use all the money I've saved by not having children to look after myself. Reply

DARE Hang on MARM, that's personal responsibility, rational thinking and planning for your future! Ah, now I see why you're on my side of the fence. Reply

Abstract (150 words)

Needs to summarise entire report.

Introduction (400 words)

There are no subheading for Intro, however, you should have a brief introduction with definition of terms-stating why it is important to explore this area, followed by review of literature where you explore past research-what they did well, what they did wrong-this will identify a gap in past research that will inform your study. You then justify what you are during in study rationale and end with research question. Your RQ NEEDS TO BE WORDED AS A QUESTIONS!

Intro should resemble the structure of an inverted triangle (i.e. start broad, exploring potential gaps/ tensions and end with a TA appropriate RQ).

Method (200 words):

Design and participant Data gathering and ethics Data analysis procedure.

Where the first would outline the method used (Qualitative study using Thematic Analysis as an approach) which sits with the philosophical stance youve chosen in terms of ontology and epistemology. Some limited information about your participants-or why we do not have any info about these. Second would examine how you gathered data and what ethical considerations you took. the last would follow the six-step approach outlined in Braun and Clarke (2006), IF you have taken different steps these need to be outlined.

Some hints on the approach: Critical realist:

There is an objective reality, but the experiencing of that reality is subjective and can vary across individuals (0). Allows you to 'theorise motivations, experience, and meaning in a straightforward way, because a simple, largely unidirectional relationship is assumed between meaning and experience and language (language reflects and enables us to articulate meaning and experience) (E; Braun & Clarke, 2006, p. 85)

Constructivism:

Assumes 'meaning and experience are socially produced and reproduced, rather than inhering within individuals (O; Braun & Clarke, 2006, p. 85). Therefore, TA conducted within a constructionist framework cannot and does not seek to focus on motivation or individual psychologies, but instead seeks to theorise the socio-cultural contexts, and structural conditions that enable the individual accounts that are provided.' (Braun & Clarke, 2006, p. 85)

Results/findings/analysis (400 words): Here you want to start by outlining the overarching and subordinate themes and how they relate to one another (ideally using a thematic map). You also need to have named and defined your themes, however, this could be achieved as part of the set-up for each theme/sub-theme an approach which speaks to the use of SET-UP/QUOTE(S)/COMMENTARY (with the last drawing on theory, where possible). I also tend to lump my similar comments together so that I can set them up and comment on them more fully but that is rather dependent on the data.

Discussion (350 words): Start by summarising the results and how they relate back to the RQ and appropriate theory. Then elaborate in terms of Theoretical/Methodological and Practical implications, study strengths and limitations and future research considerations. Finally end with a snappy paragraph which encapsulates the key take-home message from your research.

References

Appendices

Student Assignment Brief

Contents:

Assignment Information

Module Name: FORMTEXT Introduction to Qualitative Research Methods

Module Code: 4016SPS

Assignment Title: Written qualitative report.

Assignment Due: FORMTEXT 8th April 2024 at 6pm

Assignment Credit: 15 credits

Word Count (or equivalent): 1500 words 10%

Assignment Type:

Percentage Grade (Applied Core Assessment). You will be provided with an overall grade between 0% and 100%. You have one opportunity to pass the assignment at or above 40%.

Assignment Task

Given the wordcount you should aim to include no more than 3 full themes-you may decide to use sub-themes, but these are not required.

Submission Instructions:

Development of Skills and Attributes

1. Investigating problems using rigorous scientific methods

2. Identifying relevant, reliable, and valid sources of information

3. Analysing and interpreting qualitative data

4. Writing clear and concise research reports and proposals

5. Synthesising and summarising complex information

Graduate attributes development:

Communicate Effectively

Act with Integrity

Adapt my Approach

Think Creatively

Marking and Feedback

How will my assignment be marked?

Your assignment will be marked by the module team

How will I receive my grades and feedback?

Provisional marks will be released once internally moderated

Feedback will be provided by the module team alongside grade release.

Your feedback can be accessed through original submission link on Turnitin.

What will I be marked against?

Details of the marking criteria for this task can be found at the bottom of this assignment brief.

Assessed Module Learning Outcomes

FORMTEXT 1. The assignment satisfies the first three learning outcomes in terms of:

1. Demonstrating knowledge of how to design, conduct, and analyse the results of qualitative studies

2. Demonstrating a critical appreciation of the strengths and limitations of qualitative research methods

Assignment Support and Academic Integrity

If you have any questions about this assignment please see the Student Guidance on Coursework for more information.

Spelling, Punctuation, and Grammar:

You are expected to use effective, accurate, and appropriate language within this assessment task.

Academic Integrity:

Support for Students with Disabilities or Additional Needs:

Unable to Submit on Time?

Module Leader Name: Jakub Sticky

Module Leader Email: ad8542@coventry.ac.uk

Assignment Category: Written

Attempt Type: Standard

Component Code: CW

80 to 100% 70 to 79% 60 to 69% 50 to 59% 40 to 49% Fail 0-35%

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