EVAL 325 - Qualitative Research Methods for Evaluation & Applied Research

This course is designed to introduce students to qualitative research methods. Although students will be introduced to the theoretical paradigms that underlie the methods we cover, the primary emphasis will be on learning how to apply qualitative methods to conduct high-quality applied research and evaluation work. We will explore qualitative data collection techniques, including observations, interviews, document analyses, and focus groups, and qualitative analytic approaches, including content analysis, grounded theory, and Consensual Qualitative Research. We’ll discuss the conditions under which each data collection and data analysis technique is appropriate, and we’ll consider the relative strengths and limitations associated with each. In addition to learning about qualitative research by reading high-quality qualitative work products, students will also design and carry out a qualitative investigation over the course of the semester.
Units: 4
Course Type: Seminar