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COED 606

COED 606: Research in Counseling and Program Evaluation         

Credit Hours: (3)        

The purpose of this class is to give graduate students the opportunity to learn, understand, and apply statistical procedures to research theories     related to the counseling profession. Students will learn the foundational principles of research and put research theory into practice. Along with learning discipline-relevant educational research practices, one of the most important aspects of the course is increased competence in the use of statistical procedures and research methodologies.


Detailed Description of Course

The course covers:

• Introduction to Research  - Traditional and outcome-based
• Quantitative Research
    o Collecting Quantitative Data
    o Analyzing and Interpreting Quantitative Data
• Qualitative Research
    o Collecting Qualitative Data
    o Interpreting Qualitative Data
• Ethnographic Designs
• Mixed Methods Designs
• Experimental Designs
• Survey Designs
• Reviewing the Literature
• Identifying Research Problems
• Research Questions
• Reporting and Evaluating Research
• Descriptive Statistics
• Inferential Statistics     


Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

The course may consist of didactic and experiential instruction, including statistical software. Students will learn through reading, engaging in discussion, and participating in class activities. There will be an expectation of active class involvement and participation, individual research projects, and presentations related to their research project.


Goals and Objectives of this Course

• the importance of research in advancing the counseling profession (CACREP, 2009, II.G.8.a);
• research methods such as qualitative, quantitative, single-case designs, action research, and outcome-based research(CACREP, 2009, II.G.8.b);  
• statistical methods used in conducting research and program evaluation(CACREP, 2009, II.G.8.c);
• principles, models, and applications of needs assessment, program evaluation, and the use of findings to effect program modifications(CACREP, 2009, II.G.8.d);
• the use of research to inform evidence-based practice(CACREP, 2009, II.G.8.e); and
• ethical and culturally relevant strategies for interpreting and reporting the results of research and/or program evaluation studies(CACREP, 2009, II.G.8.f).  


Assessment Measuress

May be based on but not limited to:

• Class attendance and participation
• Research project (paper)
• Research project presentation
• Mid-term examination
• Cumulative final examination


Other Course Information

None