This course presents a wide range of qualitative and alternative research methods available to the social researcher. Methods examined include observational field research, case histories and other narratives, intensive interviewing, historical analysis and literature analysis, Attention is given to the strengths and weaknesses of each of these approaches. In the context of discussing these various methods, attention is also given to the broader issues, both for quantitative and qualitative research, of problem formulation, measurement, reliability, validity, sampling and ethical considerations. Thus, research design will be a major topic, as a lead into the more specific focus in the dissertation research courses. This seminar is the intellectual organizing mechanism of the program.
Students define dissertation topics and subsequent research and writing.
A major goal here is to foster the sharing of experience, philosophy and methodological approach to the issues that are the bases of a doctoral program. Students should emerge from this two-course sequence with an approved dissertation proposal. Understanding the Structure of Social Theory 2. Theories of Social Economies 3. Analyzing Poverty 4.