Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2018 - CRIM 864 G100

Research Methods V: Advanced Qualitative Methods (3)

Class Number: 8054

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 4 – Dec 3, 2018: Mon, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    CRIM 862, or permission of the instructor.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Advanced topics, issues and techniques in qualitative research methods in criminological and socio-legal research. Subject matter will vary according to instructor interests and specialization. Specific areas of concentration may include: field research; participatory action research; qualitative research and the digital revolution; research ethics; historical methods.

COURSE DETAILS:

The course assumes completion of Crim 862 at SFU or its equivalent meaning that students will enter the class with a theoretical, practical, and critical understanding of qualitative research, and a working knowledge of qualitative data collection and analysis including the use of NVivo software. This course will focus on field-based research and students will conduct an original research project that involves engagement with human participants. The primary outcome of the class is to enhance your qualitative research methods skills and to address, at an advanced level, some of the challenges faced by qualitative researchers including ethical considerations, emotionality in research, honouring participant voices, and conducting credible research. The structure of the class has been specifically designed to encourage active participation. Much of our in-class time will be spent talking about your research projects and the issues that arise as you engage in the research process.

PREREQUISITES:
Criminology 862 or equivalent, or permission of the instructor.

Grading

  • Research Proposal/Ethics Review (electronic submission)- No later than Oct. 6/18 0%
  • Weekly Seminar Contributions 10%
  • Midterm Reflection assignment - Oct. 16/18 10%
  • Final Presentation - TBD 20%
  • Final Project 60%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

1. Skloot, Rebecca. (2010). The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks. New York: Broadway Publishers.
Note: This book has not been ordered through the bookstore. It is readily available at most bookstores, through online book providers (including e-formats) and is likely available at your local library. It is not a typical textbook and I encourage you to read this at a beach over the summer rather than waiting for the intensity of the fall semester.

2. Kilty, J. M., Felices-Luna, M., & Fabian, S. C. (Eds.). (2014). Demarginalizing Voices: Commitment, Emotion, and Action in Qualitative Research. Vancouver, BC: UBC Press.
Note: We will be using selected readings from this text. A copy is available on-line through the SFU library. This book has not been ordered through the bookstore. If you wish to purchase a copy of the text please contact me directly.

3. On-line and reserve readings as required
ATTENTION:

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