Course Description :
This course is a skill building course aimed at helping graduate social work students review the theory and methods of research in the context of social work practice. The SW290 is focused on the theoretical study and practical application of social research especially in social work practice.
The SW290 student is expected to develop advanced set of skills in proper research work. The graduate student should be able to demonstrate this skill set by making his/her own research proposal (preferably related to their respective thesis) to be submitted at the end of the semester.
Course Assumptions :
It is assumed that the SW290 student has basic knowledge of two fundamental subject matter related to research—these are research and statistics. This two topics are a standard part of any undergraduate curriculum regardless of disciplinal perspective. That is why the student is well advised to review their college research and statistic subjects at the early stages of the semester.
1) Define and explain the importance, concepts and principles of research as applied in social work;
2) Understand and apply the different research methodologies and processes with special focus on observation, interviewing, FGD, case study, sampling survey and secondary data analysis;
3) Gather, analyze and interpret empirical data using appropriate research methodologies, analytical tools and computer software such as Excel and/or SPSS;
4) Understand and apply APA style of research writing; and
5) Conceptualize and design a full blown research proposal that is preferably related to their future thesis.
- Teacher: rainier almazan