National CAE Designated Institution
  • Classroom
  • Online, Instructor-Led

This is an introductory course in applied research methods in the social sciences with a particular emphasis on information studies. It will provide an overview of the basic issues and methods that information professionals should consider when collecting, analyzing, and evaluating data regarding information programs and services. The course covers scientific inquiry, research ethics, problem formulation, measurement, as well as quantitative and qualitative methods and analysis. It will also provide a foundation for evaluating a variety of scientific, technical, business, and government information and for conducting applied research in information‐based organizations. The course is appropriate for students with no background in research or analytical methods.

Learning Objectives

  1. Demonstrate an understanding of the nature of scientific inquiry.
  2. Analyze the manner in which research is conducted.
  3. Analyze and apply the concepts of multiple methods of collecting, managing, and analyzing evidence.
  4. Evaluate the relationship between theory, method, and evidence.
  5. Evaluate research literature in information studies and assess, interpret, and report research results.
  6. Identify, describe, and understand elementary quantitative statistical analyses found in research in the field of information studies.
  7. Analyze the foundation for designing and conducting future research in the field of information studies, including user assessment and the evaluation of information programs and services.
  8. Explain the procedures necessary to ensure that the benefits and risks of research are distributed fairly.
  9. Manage virtual teams to design a research study and articulate how this study could be implemented.
  10. Create a practical research proposal within the field of information studies.
  11. Complete a critical analysis of qualitative and quantitative research conducted in the field of Information Studies as found in electronic and print resources.

Framework Connections

The materials within this course focus on the NICE Framework Task, Knowledge, and Skill statements identified within the indicated NICE Framework component(s):

Competency Areas