Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2017 - CRIM 862 G100

Research Methods III: Qualitative Methods (3)

Class Number: 8038

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 4 – Apr 7, 2017: Wed, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

A range of research techniques generally subsumed under the rubric of qualitative research including field research, interview techniques, historical and legal research, and documentary analysis. Emphasis will be on the logic underlying such inquiry, the advantages and limitations associated with different sources of information and procedures, and the processes by which analytical rigor is achieved. Students enrolling in this course are expected to have a solid background in undergraduate qualitative research methods, equivalent to CRIM 321.

COURSE DETAILS:

Crim 862 is an advanced graduate seminar on qualitative research methods in criminology that mixes literature, discussion and experience. Course objectives are:

·         To further a theoretical, practical, and critical understanding of qualitative research
·         To explore a variety of qualitative research methods
·         To expose a variety of issues specific to qualitative approaches and techniques including key methodological considerations, such as ethics, interpretation, and assessment
·         To understand the process of qualitative data collection and analysis
·         To develop your expertise in NVivo software
·         To conduct a qualitative research project

Grading

  • Qualitative Study Evaluation 15%
  • Facilitation 10%
  • Participation 10%
  • Term Research Project - class presentation 20%
  • Term Research Project - Final written research report 45%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

1. Luker, K. (2010). Salsa dancing into the social sciences: research in an age of info-glut. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press.

2. Tilley, S. A. (2016). Doing respectful research: power, privilege and passion. Halifax, NS: Fernwood Publishing. See http://brunswickbooks.ca/Doing-Respectful-Research/

NOTE: the texts have not been ordered through the bookstore but should be easy to order on line. Weekly on-line readings (three to five articles per week although the reading list is lighter in the second half of the term).

Graduate Studies Notes:

Important dates and deadlines for graduate students are found here: http://www.sfu.ca/dean-gradstudies/current/important_dates/guidelines.html. The deadline to drop a course with a 100% refund is the end of week 2. The deadline to drop with no notation on your transcript is the end of week 3.

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS