Research Methods for the Behavioral Sciences

Catalog description

This is a three-hour course offered each spring semester. Its purpose is to provide the student with an introduction to the concepts and techniques of research methodology as employed in the behavioral sciences including experimental research, field and survey research, content analysis and other unobtrusive techniques, and evaluative assessment research. Students will be encouraged to demonstrate an understanding of the role of research for helping professionals; examining truth-seeking from a scientific and from a Biblical perspective; critiquing current research findings in professional journals; identifying appropriate research methodology for a given problem or topic; completing an empirical research project from start to finish; developing a research manuscript using the APA publication manual guidelines; and developing oral communication skills in presenting one's research project to a professional audience. Prerequisite: MAT-305.