PYD808 Qualitative Research Methods (2 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): PYD806  
This course familiarizes students with fundamental concepts, attitudes, and applied skills in the qualitative methodological approaches most applicable to the counseling psychology field. Students have the opportunity for “hands on” experience with qualitative research, including critical literature analysis, the formulation of research questions, proposal development, data collection, data analysis, and writing results in professional prose. Understanding of ethical issues and the development of ethical practice is emphasized throughout.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Describe the comparative strengths and weaknesses of qualitative and quantitative methods and how these approaches can be integrated.
2. Evaluate published qualitative research with an emphasis on critique of design strength, rigor, and study limitations.
3. Evaluate methodological and ethical considerations associated with employing qualitative methods.
4. Develop appropriate research questions for qualitative methods of inquiry.
5. Design a qualitative research study and develop a research proposal.
6. Analyze qualitative data, interpreting and presenting results in professional prose.