Social Work 350

SOWK 350: Introduction to Social Work Research

Prerequisites: STAT 200 and admission to SOWK major.

Credit Hours: (3)

This introductory research methods course focuses on scientific literacy and engaging in the evidence-based practice process for social work practitioners. This course will emphasize how research has been used to perpetuate oppression. 

 

Detailed Description of Content of Course

I.    Introduction to the Research Process

II.    Ethics & Research

        A.    Diversity

        B.    Special Populations

III.    Qualitative Research

IV.    Quantitative Research

V.    Research Designs

        A.    Single System Designs

        B.    Group Designs

VI.    Research Instruments

VII.    Survey Research

VIII.    Analysis & Processing of Data

IX.    Program Evaluation

X.    Professional Writing

  

Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

Instructional strategies will include classroom lecture/discussion, cooperative group projects, student presentations, and field experiences ("hands-on" collection of data as part of a whole class project).

 

Goals and Objectives of the Course

Having completed this course, students will be able to:

1.Understand and apply scientific research products towards social work practice.

2.Demonstrate the ability to synthesize literature in support of original arguments.  

3.Interpret the results of empirical analyses.

4.Recognize the ethical implications of research for oppressed groups.

 

Assessment Measures

Assessment strategies include in-class examinations; evaluation of student presentations; and evaluation of group research project, including self and colleague evaluation components.

 

Other Course Information

Texts:

Publication manual of the American Psychological Association.  5th ed. Washington, DC: APA.
Royse, D. (2004). Research methods in social work.  4th ed. Pacific Grove, CA: Brooks/Cole.

Films:

CBS News. (2000). Tuskegee [videorecording].  Princeton, NJ: Films for the Humanities & Sciences.

Websites:

http:cme.nci.nih.gov/
http://www.radford.edu/~sponsrpr/
http://sswr.org


Review and Approval

Revised, April 23, 2013

November, 2004

Revised 2/5/09