Epistemology and Philosophy of Science in Social Work

Graduate

This course examines the epistemological foundations of social work research. The nature of knowledge, the different ways we come to know, and the social process in the distribution of knowledge are discussed. Critical analysis of the historical context, philosophical assumptions, and current debates related to each paradigm--positivist/postpositivist, interpretative, critical and postmodernism are explored. Students identify their own standpoint with respect to their dissertation research. The process by which social work researchers can advance evidence for practice within social justice principles for each of the available paradigms is emphasized.