Qualitative Methods focuses on the importance of inter-personal relationship skills in planning practice. The emphasis is on developing and refining such skills to facilitate interviewing techniques for successful qualitative research which underpins humane planning practice. Basic instruction is given in in-depth interviewing techniques – for use in both individual interview situations and focus groups. Students undertake a variety of class exercises to develop their skills in interviewing and rigorous data analysis. A major qualitative research project involves in-depth interviewing, transcription preparation, data analysis, and reporting of findings. Students have the opportunity to reflect on and share experiences. Assessment is based on participation in class discussions and exercises, a major qualitative research project and reading set texts.