0 or 3 credits
Spring 2025 Lecture Distance Learning Upper DivisionThis course is an introduction to research methods as used in community programs for children and families including review and application of existing research literature, generating research questions, conducting program needs assessments, evaluating processes and outcomes of existing programs, designing and interpreting applied research studies, and understanding ethical responsibilities in the use and application of research. Instruction has been designed to provide the skills necessary to use existing research and generate new data to benefit programs.
Learning Outcomes1Understand the role of research (and the necessity of using strong research methodology) in the acquisition of knowledge.
2Acquire knowledge, skills, and professional perspectives for the comprehension, application, analysis, synthesis, interpretation, and evaluation of research/finding.
3Become familiar with the methods and tools of research, including common research search engines.
4Develop the basic knowledge and skills needed to understand the research process, including generating a research question, designing a study, analyzing data, and interpreting results.
5Understand the ethics of conducting and using/not using empirical research findings in academic and professional practice settings.
6Demonstrate an ability to apply research results to ethical decision making practice.
7Develop an appreciation for the value of research in improving the quality of professional practice.
8Write a critical and comprehensive review of the literature on a topic of educational or professional significance and design a research study (using the APA formatting style) as part of a research proposal.
9Effectively present research studies and findings to a group.