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Course Description
The purpose
of this course is to expose students to the logic and philosophy of social
science research, paying special attention to current methodological issues
and controversies. This course is a survey of the most important and
frequently used methods and techniques of social science research and
analysis used by administrators, planners, and policy makers in the public,
nonprofit, & private sectors. Key aspects of research crucial to the
conduct of mainstream social science inquiry are covered: 1) theory; 2)
research methodology; 3) interpretation of statistical analysis; and 4)
effective communication of research. Computer usage—SPSS and Microsoft
Excel—is an integral part of the course. The course requires that
students have an appropriate background in statistics, specifically STA 215.
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Objectives
By the end of the semester,
students will be able to:
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Comprehend research ethics
and protection of human subjects
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Understand research designs
and hypotheses
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Operationalize variables into
valid and reliable measures
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Create and administer surveys
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Manage spreadsheets
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Analyze and describe data
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Read and interpret data P
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Present findings in a clear
and concise manner
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Required Texts
(T) William M. K. Trochim
(2005). Research Methods: The Concise Knowledge Base.
Cincinnati, OH: Atomic Dog Publishing.
(DT) James P. Donnelly &
William M. K. Trochim (2005). Research Methods: The Concise Knowledge
Base Workbook. Cincinnati, OH: Atomic Dog Publishing.
Both texts are available online
for $42 (note: online access only). Visit
Atomic Dog for order information.
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Suggested Readings
My advice to you is to read as
much as you can about research so you can distinguish between good and bad
research. Think like a researcher. Always ask questions like can it be
generalized, who conducted the research and who are they affiliated with,
are there violations, are the findings a result of what they say or could
there be an alternative explanation? Many articles reporting research
finding can be found in print and online newspapers and magazines like
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