Research Methods
Description:
This course provides an introduction to research as formalized inquiry. The variety
of forms this inquiry may take when addressing various types of problems will be
stressed. Knowledge and skills necessary for critical analysis of these various types
of research will be addressed. Areas covered will include the components of research
and the uses and limitations of various research methods. Students will formulate
an initial research problem and propose a method of inquiry including consideration
of the design, execution, and presentation of the research. Computer applications
and resources as aids in these inquiries will be discussed.
Objectives:
Through readings, lecture, discussion, demonstration, written assignments and
projects, students will
1. Analyze and critique research methods in texts. Critiques will attend to
appropriateness, clarity, completeness, and cohesiveness of the research approach
for various types of problems.,
2. Identify and refine a research problem and outline the components of a
study which addresses that problem. These components will include: PROBLEM, PURPOSE,
LITERATURE REVIEW (including topics; a description of search strategies for each
topic including data bases, key terms for each data base, at lease three primary
works for each topic in the form of an annotated bibliography, and a developed referenced
narrative for one subtopic); DEFINITIONS; LIMITATIONS AND ASSUMPTIONS; DESIGN OF
STUDY (including a description of methods, procedures, analyses, planned method of
interpretation of findings); FINDINGS OR CONCLUSIONS (anticipated results and form
of final product)as well as REFERENCES AND BIBLIOGRAPHY. These will be presented
in APA format .
3. Demonstrate an understanding of the philosophical consequences of choosing
a problem and research methods. This includes self exploration of student's philosophy,
goals, and interests that would influence selection of a research problems and methodologies.
4. Demonstrate an awareness of the usefulness of research approaches from
other disciplines to their research concerns.
5. Use computer mediated communication and face to face group meetings to share
and support asynchronous and synchronous discussion and writing in the development
of reseach proposals.
6. Demonstrate ability to define, find, critically analyze and utilize appropriate
resources for the research chosen.
Grading:
| Participation/Discussion |
50% |
| Readings & Written Work |
40% |
| Other |
10% |
If you have a documented disability and anticipate needing accommodations in
this course, please make an appointment with me during the first week of the term.
Please request that the Counselor for Students with Disabilities send a letter verifying
your disability.
Disabilities may include (but are not limited to) neurological impairment; orthopedic
impairment; traumatic brain injury; visual impairment; chronic medical conditions;
emotional/psychological disabilities; hearing impairment; and learning disabilities.
Dr. Beverly Jones <bjones@darkwing.uoregon.edu