Research Methods

RESEARCH METHODS IN EDUCATION

Course Syllabus

Instructor:	Dr. Patricia Busk
	Office Hours
	Analysis of a Dissertation
	Prospectus Example No. 1
	Prospectus Example No. 2
	Internet Resources Blackboard

The purpose of this course is to introduce doctoral-level education students to quantitative and qualitative educational research traditions, procedures, theories, and methods. For the purpose of this course, quantitative methods are those most commonly used by researchers who employ scientific methods, whereas qualitative methods are employed by interpretive researchers.

A. To introduce students to the processes of educational research, in particular, identifying and defining a research problem. At the end of the course, students will be able to

1. identify the components of scientific (quantitative) and interpretative (qualitative) and methods, similarities and differences, and some of the arguments for the use of each form of research.
2. analyze research problems and derive a researchable and educationally relevant question for investigation.
3. apply research principles to develop an introduction to a research problem.
4. identify or select a theoretical basis or conceptual model for the basis of a research problem.
5. design a study to address a research problem.

B. To introduce students to tools for critiquing research. At the end of the course, students will be able to

1. identify the components of a research study, that is, the purpose, problem, research questions or hypotheses (when appropriate).
2. identify the variables in a scientific research study.
3. identify the methodology and the type of design used in a research study.
4. to identify the theoretical basis or conceptual model for a research study.
5. identify ethical issues present in a research study.
6. critique an interpretative (qualitative) research study.
7. critique a scientific (quantitative) research study.

C. To introduce students to the application of knowledge about research to dissertation research. At the end of the course, students will have

1. an introduction to the research problem for a possible dissertation proposal.
2. the purpose statement for the research for a possible dissertation proposal.
3. a description of the educational significance of the proposed research.
4. a description of the ethical aspects of the proposed study.
5. an outline of the components of the review of the literature.

Course Organization

Attendance and Course Requirements

Assignment of Grades

Required Texts

Course Readings

Office Hours