SOWK 621: Research I: Basic Research Methodology
Prerequisites: Admission to the Graduate Program in Social Work or permission of the instructor
Credit Hours: (3)
Introduction to elements of scientific inquiry and research applied in the context of social
Detailed Description of Content of Course
The fundamental elements of scientific inquiry and research techniques, including
a variety of research methodologies, are introduced in this course. Students are challenged
to enhance their learning through a focus on the technical aspects of research analysis
and critical evaluation of research conclusions, with each step building on previously
acquired learning in order to encourage a depth of knowledge about research. Students
are introduced to a systematic approach to the classification, organization, and analysis
of data through a consideration of the fundamental essentials of scientific thinking
and methodology relative to social welfare planning and practice.
The course emphasizes the identification and formulation of researchable problems
in social work, the utility of the scientific method, the selection of appropriate
methodologies, an understanding of the standards for evaluation of research, and sensitivity
to bias and ethical behavior in the conduct of research. Also emphasized is an understanding
of the fundamental assumptions underlying quantitative and qualitative methodologies
as well as their ramifications for research undertaken consistent with each.
Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
The course is organized around student-centered learning principles, experiential
activities, films/videos, class discussion, limited use of didactic instruction (lectures),
student presentations, and student exercises. The course encourages student exploration
and reflection regarding how research is related to practice, policy, and human behavior
in the social environment. Students are also encouraged to examine how individual,
institutional, and societal biases affect the topic, methods, reported findings, and
uses of research. Students are expected to be active learners and to contribute to
the learning of their classmates.
Goals and Objectives of Course
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate an understanding of the basic logic, concepts, terminology, and skills
of research in the social sciences;
2. Explain the distinct philosophical assumptions on which quantitative and qualitative
methodologies are based;
3. Develop methodologically sound research designs appropriate to the subject under
study;
4. Critique professional reports and articles and become a responsible consumer of
knowledge acquired through social work research;
5. Design an independent research project;
6. Explain the function of social work research as it relates to the advancement of
professional knowledge and practice; and
7. Relate ethical, value, and culture issues to the conduct of social work research.
Assessment Measures
Core assignments may include but are not limited to the following: (1) exams, (2)
human subjects training, (3) annotated bibliography, (4) research proposal. Course
requirements may also include class exercises, presentations, quizzes, online discussion,
participation, and other modalities of assessment.
Other course information
In addition to mastering the principles of research design, students plan an independent research study that they will later carry out in SOWK 772. Students in the Advanced Standing program do not take SOWK 621; instead, they plain their research project in SOWK 679, Advanced Standing Bridge II.
Review and Approval
March 5, 2013