Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2022 - EDUC 866 G001

Qualitative Methods in Educational Research (5)

Class Number: 1735

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 10 – Apr 11, 2022: Tue, 4:30–9:20 p.m.
    Surrey

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

This course introduces students to qualitative research in education and examines topics such as identifying problems, using conceptual frameworks, coding, data analysis, drawing interpretations, and constructing arguments.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course introduces the principles and methods of qualitative research in educational settings.  Graduate students at any stage of their program are welcome to enroll, and the final (portfolio) assignment can be adapted to fit each student’s research trajectory.  Together, we will explore the foundations of qualitative inquiry, theoretical and ethical issues, and the individual worldviews that inform our work.  We will also engage in hands-on, practical activities that further our understandings of the challenges and opportunities embedded in qualitative approaches.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

Participation in this course will enable students to:

  • gain familiarity with all stages of a qualitative research study, from initial formulation of an idea to reporting the results,
  • engage in specific inquiry practices and strategies that are associated with qualitative research,
  • develop an understanding of criteria for assessing qualitative research quality and apply that knowledge to one’s own work and to others.’

Grading

  • Class Attendance & Participation 20%
  • Fieldwork Component 20%
  • Book Commentary 10%
  • Analytic Memos 10 (each)%
  • Portfolio 30%

NOTES:

More detailed information regarding the assignments will be provided on the first day of classes. Please also note that the fieldwork component may involve conducting observations and/or interviews off campus, at a location chosen by the student. Information about the choice of venue, as well as risk and safety issues, will be reviewed in class prior to the field study.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Ravitch, S. M., & Carl, N. M. (2021). Qualitative research: Bridging the conceptual, theoretical, and methodological (2nd Edition). Sage Publications.


ISBN: 978-1544333816

Additional reading assignments will be accessible through the SFU library and on CANVAS.

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 SPRING 2022

Teaching at SFU in spring 2022 will involve primarily in-person instruction, with safety plans in place.  Some courses will still be offered through remote methods, and if so, this 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 spring 2022 term.