Introduction to Doctoral Research: Qualitative Methods

3 credits · Graduate

This course introduces early-stage doctoral students to qualitative research so that they will be able to read qualitative studies critically, and learn to design and conduct qualitatively oriented studies themselves. Beginning with an overview of the epistemological assumptions behind different kinds of research, the course will explore various approaches and the kinds of topics and queries they support. Students will read and critique examples of published research, partially chosen for the interests of course participants. Next, students will investigate topic development, the various methods of collecting and analyzing qualitative data, and report writing.