School Psychology (MA/CAGS) Program

Course Descriptions

RS 555—Research Methods and Program Evaluation

3 credits

This course provides students with an understanding of how productive research and evaluation questions are formulated, the critical distinction between empirical observation and inference, and factors governing the types of conclusions which can be drawn from empirical data. Issues such as sample size and type, correlational vs. experimental research designs, objective vs. subjective data are addressed. Special issues of qualitative research and single case studies are addressed, including the use of phenomenological research to generate research hypotheses. The material is presented with the primary intent of training student to be discriminating consumers of research. A program evaluation assignment is conducted in conjunction with Practicum II.

Updated 10/1/07