<p>Lecture, three and one half hours. Introduction to different approaches, designs, and methods of conceptualizing inquiry and gathering evidence in the social sciences, including qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method approaches. Introduction also to ethical considerations in social scientific research. Lectures, readings, and assignments highlight these multiple methods of research and the norms for reporting research in the social sciences. Sessions are interactive with lectures, discussions, group work, and opportunities for individual consultations on projects. Readings exemplify different approaches and methods. Discussions and assignments focus on how material may inform the research process for the capstone project including conducting a literature review, constructing research questions and research design, constructing instruments, collecting and analyzing data, presenting research findings, and formulating a theory of change. Letter grading.</p>

Education

School of Education and Information Studies

EDUC 478 - Introduction to Research Methods

Introduction to Research Methods

Deliver a professional presentation connecting theory, research design, and practice (Stand & Deliver presentation)  

Distinguish empirical, research-based claims from opinion-based or anecdotal claims

Locate and evaluate credible scholarly sources relevant to the research topic

Synthesized literature into a coherent, thematic review

Explain key features of qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods designs

Apply ethical principles in research design and implementation

Analyze the structure and components of an empirical research article through progressive deconstruction of the anchor text

Develop a clear, focused, and researchable question 

Design a methodologically appropriate research study

Identify and construct data collection instruments

General Catalog

Introduction to Research Methods

EDUC 478

4 units