Social Work Research Methods

Catalog description

This foundation course is designed to help students gain an understanding of and appreciation for the use of research as a tool for professional evidence-based practice. Students are introduced to the concepts and skills underlying a systematic approach to social work research, including basic research terminology, the scientific method in social work, the value of research in social work, research ethics and the social work value base, problem formulation and conceptualization, measurement, research designs to evaluate programs and practice, sampling, alternative quantitative and qualitative data gathering and analytic techniques, and preparation and use of research reports. The emphasis in the course is on equipping students with the research knowledge and skills they’ll need to engage in the evidence-based practice process at all levels of social work practice. As part of that process, they will learn how to critically appraise sources of scientific evidence and how the criteria for that appraisal will vary depending upon the purpose of the research. Course Learning Outcomes 1. Formulate answerable evidence-based practice research questions. 2. Conduct advanced searches of electronic bibliographic databases and other sources efficiently to find evidence bearing on evidence-based practice research questions. 3. Appraise sources of scientific evidence critically and explain how the criteria for that appraisal will vary depending upon the purpose of the research. 4. Discuss why research evidence needs to be integrated with practice expertise and idiosyncratic client preferences, circumstances, and values in the evidence-based practice process. 5. Design evaluations as part of evidence-based practice. View Class Schedule