Research Methods I

Catalog description

This course introduces research methodology pertinent to the evaluation of human service programs, and discusses the rationale for conducting evaluations. Among the topics discussed are the relationship of evaluative efforts to program design and implementation, threats to validity of program evaluation, constructing a measurement plan and designs for program and evaluation. Program evaluation knowledge, skills and techniques, such as needs assessment, operationalization of variables, levels of measurement, statistical significance, efficiency and outcome evaluation are introduced. This course emphasizes this methodology when conducting formative evaluations, i.e., needs assessment, program development, and market research.