Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2021 - CRIM 860 G100

Research Methods I: Research Design (3)

Class Number: 2379

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 8 – Dec 7, 2021: Fri, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Research design for criminological problems and foundational techniques for the conduct of research in criminology. The further development of fundamental research skills to be applied in research, including subsequent research methods courses and in the preparation of theses and dissertations. Students enrolling in this course are expected to have a solid background in undergraduate research methods, equivalent to CRIM 220.

COURSE DETAILS:

If our aim in research is to generate data that will allow us to make unambiguous empirically-based statements about the nature of the phenomena we choose to observe, then research design is the study of how we manage that process in order to eliminate and/or control the many rival plausible explanations that can plague the inferences we make. Accordingly, Crim 860 is an advanced graduate seminar that focuses primarily on the design of qualitative, quantitative and mixed-methods research in criminology that combines literature, discussion and experience. A secondary objective of the course is to introduce graduate students to the various professional roles that come with advanced degrees in criminology and the various career trajectories criminologists might follow. The course is heavily discussion-based and will meet from 9:30 AM to 12:20 PM each Friday.

Grading

  • A series of brief (5-7 page) assignments focusing on the analytical issues and various skills the course seeks to develop 75%
  • Participation in discussion and submission of one-page commentaries on readings 25%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

There are no required texts, but Research Methods in the Social and Health Sciences by Palys & Atchison (2021) is recommended, particularly for those with minimal background in methods and/or who would like a review of the range of qualitative, quantitative and mixed-methods approaches we cover in the course. A used copy of Palys & Atchison’s Research Decisions (5th edition, 2014) also would work if you should happen to have a copy of that hanging around from an earlier course.


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:

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 FALL 2021

Teaching at SFU in fall 2021 will involve primarily in-person instruction, with approximately 70 to 80 per cent of classes in person/on campus, with safety plans in place.  Whether your course will be in-person or through remote methods will be clearly identified in the schedule of classes.  You will also know at enrollment whether remote course components will be “live” (synchronous) or at your own pace (asynchronous).

Enrolling in a course acknowledges that you are able to attend in whatever format is required.  You should not enroll in a course that is in-person if you are not able to return to campus, and should be aware 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 may need class or exam accommodations, including in the context of remote learning, are advised to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as early as possible in order to prepare for the fall 2021 term.