Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2020 - CRIM 220 D100

Research Methods in Criminology (3)

Class Number: 4247

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 11 – Aug 10, 2020: Thu, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    Any 100 division CRIM course is recommended.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to criminological research that is intended to develop the student's research and analytical skills. Specifically, the course will focus on the theory of inquiry, the logic, and structure of criminological inquiry, research design, data gathering, analysis and reporting. Students with credit for CRIM 120 may not take CRIM 220 for further credit. Quantitative.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course is designed to introduce students to the basic principles and methods of social science research as applied to criminological issues. The course will prepare students to critically assess research and select appropriate methods when designing their own research projects. Topics will include the theory and practice of social science research; formulation of effective research questions and hypotheses; constructs, operationalization, and measurement; experimental, quasi-experimental, and non-experimental research designs; sampling; quantitative and qualitative data collection techniques; and introductory data analysis. Students will submit a formal research proposal to exhibit comprehensive knowledge of the issues covered throughout the course.

Due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, instruction (which is normally offered “face to face” on campus) will be presented “remotely” via interactive Zoom lectures/tutorials/office hours, Canvas and email. There will be no in-person meetings/lectures/tutorials/office hours during the entire Summer 2020 semester. Please see the Canvas course container for details starting the first week of classes.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

To learn core research method principles to effectively evaluate empirical research and design research projects within a criminological context.

Grading

  • Tutorial Participation 20%
  • Quantitative Study Evaluation 15%
  • Research Proposal Outline 15%
  • Mid-Term Quiz 20%
  • Final Research Proposal Draft (Ungraded milestone) 5%
  • Final Research Proposal 25%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Schulenberg, J.L. (2016). The Dynamics of Criminological Research. Don Mills, Ontario: Oxford University Press. eText ISBN: 9780199000685, 0199000689

Department Undergraduate Notes:

If you have any Criminology course enrollment requests (course adds, course swaps), please contact a Criminology advisor. Please do not contact instructors for enrollment assistance as they will ultimately refer you to a Criminology advisor.

Criminology course enrollment requests should be sent to a Criminology advisor no later than the last day of the Second week of classes. Late enrollment requests are subject to approval and are not guaranteed. 

Enrollment requests for non-Crim courses should be directed to the advisor for the program offering the course. 


ATTENTION: STUDENTS WITH A DISABILITY: Please contact the Center for Accessible Learning, (MBC 1250 or Phone 778-782-3112) if you need or require assistance, not your individual instructors.  
  • N.B.: Students are reminded that attendance in the first week of classes is important. However, there are no tutorials in the first week.
  • ON CAMPUS COURSES ONLY: Assignments not submitted to the Professor/T.A. during class/office hours must be placed in the security box behind the General Office (ASSC 10125), or submitted as per Professor’s instructions for courses taking place at Surrey Campus. The assignment drop-off box is emptied Monday to Friday at 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. only and the contents are date stamped accordingly. No other department’s date stamp will apply (e.g. Library/Campus Security) and the School of Criminology is not responsible for assignments submitted any other way (e.g. slid under office doors). The University does NOT accept assignments by fax. 
  • A student must complete ALL aspects of a course (including assignments, exams, class participation, presentations, chat room components of Distance Education courses and other), otherwise he/she will receive a grade of N. 
  • E-mail policy for on campus courses only: The School of Criminology STRONGLY DISCOURAGES the use of e-mail in lieu of office hour visits. Criminology advises its instructional staff that they are NOT required to respond to student e-mails and that students wishing to confer with them should do so in person during scheduled meeting times.
  • The University has formal policies regarding intellectual dishonesty and grade appeals which may be obtained from the General Office of the School of Criminology.
  • Under GP18, the University has policies and procedures which respond to our obligations under the BC Human Rights Code to provide a harassment and discrimination free environment for the students, staff and faculty of this institution.  Members of this community have an affirmative obligation to safeguard the human rights of others.
UNIVERSITY POLICY FORBIDS FINAL EXAMINATIONS WHILE CLASSES ARE STILL IN SESSION.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/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

TEACHING AT SFU IN SUMMER 2020

Please note that all teaching at SFU in summer term 2020 will be conducted through remote methods. Enrollment in this course acknowledges that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who believe they may need class or exam accommodations, including in the current context of remote learning, are encouraged to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as soon as possible to ensure that they are eligible and that approved accommodations and services are implemented in a timely fashion.