SOW 4302 - Applied Social Work Research

Credits: 3 hrs.

This course provides an overview of basic research methods and an introduction to basic statistics for social work. Students apply quantitative and qualitative research to promote understanding of scientific, analytic, and ethical approaches to building knowledge for practice. The content prepares students to utilize research to provide high quality services, initiate change, improve practice, policy, and service delivery systems as well as evaluate their own practice. Major research designs are reviewed, such as single system designs, and students develop skills in collecting, analyzing and using data. Sampling methods, data collection techniques, and statistical and graphical approaches to data analysis are emphasized. Students develop an understanding of probabilistic analysis, quantitative reasoning, and inferential statistics. Students are provided opportunities to do data analysis on microcomputers. The course integrates themes related to multiculturalism, social justice, social change, prevention, intervention and treatment. Prerequisite(s): SOW 3302 and Admission to the Upper Division.