EMP 877 W. Bengston 3 credits
Research Methods
Description
This course will give you experience in formulating a research problem and designing the appropriate method by which to gather and evaluate data relevant to the specific research questions flowing from your problem statement. You will design a project up to but not including the actual data gathering. This component includes the process of moving from a general idea of interest to a specific, empirically observable research problem statement.
Objectives
- To present the interrelationships between theory and data in the research process
- To provide an understanding of the major issues and basic techniques of social science research
- To provide opportunity to delve into the research venture first hand by completing individual and group projects
Student Competencies
- Ability to read and interpret research articles
- Ability to use qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection
- Ability to measure variables and variable relationships
- Ability to develop a formal research project, including:
- a) formulation of problem statement
- b) construction of theoretical framework
- c) operationalization of concepts
- d) construction of relevant hypotheses
- e) procedures of data collection
- f) procedures of data analysis
Texts
- Babbie, Earl The Practice of Social Research
- Galvan, Jose Writing Literature Reviews: A Guide for Students of the Social and Behavioral Sciences
- Miller, Delbert Handbook of Research Design and Social Measurement
- Pan, M. Ling Preparing Literature Reviews
- Patten, MildredProposing Empirical Research: A Guide to the Fundamentals
- Pyrczak, FredWriting Empirical Research Reports: A Basic Guide for Students of the Social and Behavioral Sciences
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