This course is designed to provide the student with basic behavior and social science knowledge for a framework within which to understand issues in social welfare addressed in advanced studies, and with which to frame questions for theory-based research. Readings will be taken from such fields as sociology, psychology, social psychology, education, religion and ethics, economics, history, and political science. This is the foundation doctoral course in social work research. The student actively uses the language of research and is supported in following personal interests within the structure of ethical scientific research. Each student prepares an original study which demonstrates integration of the semester's work.
Students learn to knowledgeably critique research as they develop their own.
At the end of SW 852, they are prepared for more advanced coursework in research. The methodology of accountability research in human service programs is studied. Emphasis is placed on social program evaluation, idiographic research, and secondary data analysis in policy research as specialized methods of social work research. Students undertake a laboratory experience in an ongoing program evaluation project. Completion of first year of doctoral study.