SSC 420 - Real World Research & Inquiry

This course is required for students in Psychology & Community Studies and welcomes others interested in gaining further expertise in social science methodology. It is designed to provide learners with an understanding and experience using methodological approaches commonly thought of as qualitative, which may include interview-based research, focus groups, case studies, naturalistic observation, mixed method research, grounded theory, and Indigenous approaches to inquiry. Learners build on previous coursework in finding relevant information, reading journal articles, developing research questions, and selecting appropriate methods, participants, designs and analyses, reporting research findings, and doing this in the most ethical manner. The primary goals in this course are for learners to gain experience with project management, conducting preliminary research for a community partner and presenting their findings. During the semester, students are expected to make periodic progress reports on their projects and maintain professional communications with work teams and community partners. The research projects conclude with formal (convention-style) presentations. This course includes a Service-Learning and Community Engaged (SL/CE) component.

Prerequisites: MAT 124 or PSY 214 or SSC 205, junior standing, or permission of instructor.

Course Typically Offered Fall and Spring

Credits: 3