Advanced Qualitative Research

Catalog description

Designed to provide a general understanding of qualitative research methods and issues related to the design and conduct of qualitative studies. The course emphasizes experiential learning. You will have opportunities, both in class/lab and outside class, to learn by doing. Throughout the course you will be asked to reflect on what you are learning; this reflection on the practice of research will enhance your capacity to read, evaluate, design, and conduct qualitative studies. If you wish to pursue qualitative research projects, this course will provide you with the basic knowledge and skills you will need, but it is not a substitute for extensive reading and thinking about specific methods and their use, and additional learning through courses and supervised research experiences. The general aim of the course is to facilitate understandings of the following questions: 1. What is qualitative research? 2. What constitutes quality qualitative research? 3. What are the various tools/methods of a qualitative researcher? 4. What are the critical components of a qualitative research proposal?