Research Methods

This introductory research methods course is designed for learners who are, or will be, engaged in applied social science research, community-based research, and policy research initiatives. Social science and community-based research takes place in community settings and engages community leaders and members in the design and execution of the research project. This course discusses the importance of fostering partnerships which involve collaboration among the community, educational institutions, practitioners and policy makers.
This course will provide learners with the knowledge and basic tools to conceptualize core research questions and to design appropriate methods for data collection and analysis. Building upon a foundation of research ethics, the content will focus primarily on quantitative methods, as well as qualitative methods, and other methods, such as participant observation, comparative studies, case study research, descriptive field studies and secondary data analysis. The course will also provide an introduction to mixed method approaches using a blend of qualitative and quantitative approaches.

This course is only available for students enrolled in JIBC programs.