The purpose of research in the social sciences is to explain, describe, and explore social relationships and in so doing detect meaningful patterns otherwise unobserved. Theory deals with the logical interrelations among variables.
Methods address research design and modes of data collection.
Statistics is a means of summarizing a data set and making an inference from a sample to an unknown population. This course focuses on all three of these components. First, students will learn how to write and spot theoretical statements. Second, students will study different research methods including experimental research, descriptive research, qualitative methods, quasi-experimentation, and evaluation research. Third, students will use statistical methods to interpret research findings.