Social Work 772: Research II: Advanced Research Methodology
Prerequisites: Admission to the graduate program in social work. SOWK 621 with a C
or better or SOWK 679 with a B- or better.
Credit Hours: (3)
The second course in the MSW research sequence is designed to explore the dynamics
of research theory and practice. It is intended to provide students with the knowledge
base to stimulate critical use of research studies in their practice, to prepare them
for participation in agency or interdisciplinary research, and to prepare them to
undertake selected research in social work practice.
Detailed Description of Content of Course
This course is designed to explore the dynamics of research, theory, and practice.
It is intended to provide students with the knowledge base to stimulate critical use
of research studies in their practice, to prepare them for participation in agency
or interdisciplinary research, and to prepare them to undertake selected research
in social work practice. Particular consideration is given to the impact of different
research procedures relative to ethnocentrism, gender, sexual identity, economic status,
and disabilities.
The following provide the major focal points for this course:
I. Epistemology
II. Problem Formulation
III. Review of Quantitative Methods
IV. Single-System Designs
V. Qualitative Methods
VI. Program Evaluation
Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
The teaching and learning context for this course may include but is not limited to
didactic instruction, large and small group discussions, exams, student presentations,
papers, guest speakers, and other methods as appropriate.
Goals and Objectives of the course
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
1) Demonstrate a basic understanding of the full range of social science methodologies,
including both quantitative and qualitative techniques.
2) Demonstrate understanding of ethical issues inherent in all phases of the research
process and develop a capacity to maintain high ethical standards in all research
inquiries.
3) Recognize and appreciate the implications of research for cultural, ethnic, and
racial minorities; women, the disabled, and other disadvantaged groups.
4) Apply research concepts and methods to the analysis and evaluation of issues in
areas related to the student's clinical focus.
5) Understand how to utilize research to strengthen social work practice, enhance
accountability, and promote further integration of research and practice.
6) Gain an understanding of and familiarity with a variety of research tools (e.g.,
on-line, Internet, CD-ROM, conventional) used both for the review of literature and
the research study itself.
7) Demonstrate conscious awareness of personal theory/ epistemology, the assumptions
upon which it is based, and its effects on research.
8) Demonstrate effective communication of the results of a research effort through
written and oral presentations of a scientific report.
Assessment Measures
Grades will be based on the satisfactory completion of all course requirements, which
may include but are not limited to:
鈥� Completion of Readings and Class Participation
鈥� Data Analysis Exercises
鈥� Final Research Project
鈥� Article critiques
Review and Approval
May 2, 2016