SOWK 804 RESEARCH METHODS IN SOCIAL WORK I
The goals of this course are to teach students (1) to implement the most appropriate research strategies in the pursuit of knowledge pertinent to social work- relevant topics, (2) to understand and critically assess reports of experiment and observational-type research studies, (3) to develop thorough literature reviews, (4) to develop methodological strategies for testing important hypotheses and answering salient questions, and (5) to become proficient in the use of the American Psychological Association publication standards. The course examines (1) the underlying theory guiding research ? i.e., the four types of experimental validity [statistical conclusion, internal, construct, and external] and how to minimize threats to each; (2) issues regarding the selection and evaluation of measures including the various types of reliability and validity; (3) sampling strategies; (4) experimental and quasi-experimental designs (both group and time-series) including their underlying assumptions; and (5) observational (case-control and cohort designs). These courses are taught at an advanced level; as such they will expose students to the complexities and difficulties of formulating significant social work research.
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor
Offered
202002