Advanced Methods in Physics Education Research

Catalog description

This course provides an understanding of advanced quantitative and qualitative methods in physics education research, including statistical analysis of quantitative data, developing and conducting surveys and interviews in various formats analysis approaches for qualitative data, needs assessments, and program evaluation. The course is designed to prepare researchers to conduct high quality physics education research using various approaches; including case study, ethnography, mixed methods, and outcome-based research. Attention will also be paid to developing a research question that matches one’s access to data and methodology, progressive hypothesis refinement, and crafting sound interpretations from rigorous data analysis. Students will also be introduced to institutional requirements, including Institutional Review Board (IRB) procedures and commonly used ethical trainings.