Course Course Summary Section 1 Content Section 1 Content Left Section 1 Content Right Credit Type: Course ACE ID: PLNS-0077 Organization: Pearson Location: Classroom-based Length: 75 hours (15 weeks) Dates Offered: 4/1/2011 - 5/31/2015 Credit Recommendation & Competencies Section 2 Content Section 2 Content Left Section 2 Content Right Level Credits (SH) Subject Lower-Division Baccalaureate 3 Social Sciences Description Section 3 Content Section 3 Content Left Section 3 Content Right Objective: The course objective is to offer a step-by-step, systematic approach to conducting research. Emphasis is on using critical thinking, efficient research techniques and the Internet to produce an in-depth white paper. Learning Outcomes: Identify the key elements of qualitative research Evaluate the methodology, evidence, and conclusions of others' research by following a scientific research method Compare and contrast data analysis methods and applications Develop research skills by using the Internet in an effective and efficient manner Identify the emerging technical trends in the field of descriptive research Develop an appropriate instrument for collecting data Evaluate research data from indirect sources of data Design an original qualitative research question to draw valid conclusions about a socially relevant topic Synthesize research by writing a white paper Analyze the challenges and ethical issues in social research Evaluate data using an appropriate qualitative research method General Topics: An overview of qualitative research Foundations of social research 'sticky' problems in research Evaluating validity Population, samples, and sampling Indirect methods of research Using direct research methods (surveys, observation, and ethnography) Reporting Impact of technology on sociological research Writing and finalizing the white paper Project submission Instruction & Assessment Section 4 Content Section 4 Content Left Section 4 Content Right Instructional Strategies: Audio Visual Materials Computer Based Training Discussion Learner Presentations Practical Exercises Supplemental Materials Section 5 Content Section 5 Content Left Section 5 Content Right Section 6 Content Section 6 Content Left Section 6 Content Right Button Content Rail Content 1 Page Content