Full course description
In this course, you will learn about social work research through the critical examination of the methods and organization of the ever-expanding professional literature associated with social work practice. This body of research is an essential source of knowledge to help learners understand and solve complex social problems. However, utilizing this research effectively requires proper contextualization. Learners will become an effective consumer of this professional literature by using the tools necessary to find and comprehend what the research does and, importantly, does not tell us. Learners will explore how to implement quantitative and qualitative research methods, procedures to effectively find existing research, and how to apply research to practice.
The course is organized into eight modules that include information lectures, readings, resource videos, interviews with experts, and engaging activities to encourage reflection, growth, and action. We anticipate that it will take you approximately three or four hours to complete each of the modules.
For learners pursuing the full Social Work Essentials Certificate, this course is commonly taken concurrently with 508 and 509. The recommend pacing is 1 module per week per course, working on all 3 courses at the same time.