Applied Research in Legal Studies

Catalog description

This course teaches methods for solving contemporary social issues using an applied research approach. From a topic of your choosing, you will design an independent research project on a legal or policy-related matter. You will develop a conceptual framework expressive of that problem by distinguishing among the different, creative approaches to problem-solving. From these various methods of investigation, you will choose one approach to construct a well-crafted, clearly-defined formal investigation. You will come to recognize the fundamental ethics of a research project. You will acquire a set of academic research tools that culminates in constructing a conceptual framework, a literature review, a basic research design, and an argument about the merits of the project that withstands project evaluation. By the end of the course, you will have gained an additional research tool that broadens and enhances your professional goals and prospects. This course lays the groundwork for the second level applied research course.