Spring 2022 - GERO 804 G100
Advanced Qualitative Methods in Gerontology (4)
Class Number: 6564
Delivery Method: In Person
Overview
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Course Times + Location:
Jan 10 – Apr 11, 2022: Mon, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Vancouver
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Instructor:
Habib Chaudhury
hchaudhu@sfu.ca
1 778 782-5232
Description
CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:
Examines qualitative research methods used in social science research with special emphasis on gerontology. Specific focus will be placed on conducting interviews and participant-observations; field-notes, analyzing text-based data; and writing of qualitative studies.
COURSE DETAILS:
This course will examine qualitative methods in social science research with an emphasis on gerontology. We will beginwith a discussion of the epistemological assumptions in qualitative methodology and comparative strengths/weaknesses of alternative approaches. Wewill primarily focus on strategies and techniques of conducting interviews and socio-behavioural observations, writing field-notes and data analysis. The term-project will engage youto conduct in-depth interviews and ethnographic observationsin a reallifesetting. The course has the followingobjectives: a) to understand the theoretical and substantiveissues in key qualitativeresearch method traditions, b) to know the techniques/strategies of conducting field observations andinterviews, and c) to acquire hands-on skills and experience to conduct fieldwork, analyzequalitative data and write up findings.
Grading
- Seminar Participation 10%
- Term Project 60%
- Take Home Final Exam 30%
REQUIREMENTS:
1.Attend every class. This is critical as one can't simply "get the notes" in a class where students will be expected to present on readings and student interaction is important. If you expect to be late or to miss class, please informahead.
2. Come prepared. That means having read and thought about the materials in the readings. There may be some parts that can be profitably skimmed, and I will alert you to those. In general, read them with questions, ideas and conjectures in mind. Four good general questions are: a) what are the key take-aways? b) what is the argument behind those points? d) any questions arising from the reading?
3. Expect to participate. I expect each of you will be able to contribute to our discussions and will do so regularly. You are smart, capable people, and the topics, readings are designed to engage your interest and experiences.
4. Expect to learn from your peers. Seminars work when students view one another as knowledgeable and expect to learn as much from their peers as from me. Also expect to challenge my ideas and those of your classmates (gently), and to have yours challenged by us. We make no headway if we nod our heads politely but push neither ourselves, thereadings or others to deeper understandings.
5.Expect to be confused, irritated, and misunderstood, as well as appreciated, applauded, and surprised. The readings, discussions, and assignments should provoke a range of feelings and responses. Try to understand what makes you feel comfortable or uncomfortable, what you take for granted and what surprises you, what others understand or misunderstand about your ideas.
Materials
REQUIRED READING:
Available on Canvas course page via Library Course Reserves
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.