The purpose of this course is to equip students with a knowledge and understanding of key concepts and methodologies associated with both qualitative and quantitative data analysis and research design in the social sciences. Students will learn how research studies are designed, why a particular research methodology is chosen and how that methodology is then carried out. Several research designs within quantitative and qualitative research methodologies will be presented. From a quantitative perspective, the course will look at surveys, a method which allows researchers to assess and quantify, for example, problems or needs within a community or client populations, patterns of service delivery, consumer satisfaction and public opinion. In regards to qualitative research, students will be introduced to methods such as ethnography, participant observation, interviewing and focus groups. In addition to covering ethical protocol in research, the course will investigate the interpretation of results, the writing up of findings and effective communication of data. In providing students with some background in how research is conducted and presented, the course will offer students the skills to think critically about research results that are presented to them in their coursework and in the media.
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