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SOWK520 Social Services Research and Evaluation

Knowledge and skills in practice research and evaluation as methods of research appropriate for social service practitioners.

This semester-long paper is aimed at master's level students wishing to prepare for thesis or other large projects and at practitioners wanting to extend their knowledge and skills in social services research and evaluation. It provides an introduction to the three major research paradigms (qualitative, quantitative and mixed method).

Paper title Social Services Research and Evaluation
Paper code SOWK520
Subject Social Work
EFTS 0.25
Points 30 points
Teaching period Not offered in 2023 (Distance learning)
Domestic Tuition Fees (NZD) $2,482.25
International Tuition Fees Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website.

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Restriction
SOWX 520
Limited to
PGDipSW, MSW, PGDipCCP
Notes
Admission subject to approval from Head of the Social and Community Work Programme.
Eligibility
Suitable for master's level students and professionals working in any human service setting. This paper forms part of the Master of Social Work programme. Students are encouraged to take this paper just prior to commencing their thesis.
Contact

socialwork@otago.ac.nz

Teaching staff

To be advised when paper next offered.

Paper Structure
This paper covers these key themes:
  • General introduction and understanding of the three research methods
  • Theoretical frameworks and rationale
  • Research design
  • Data collection and analysis
  • Ethical issues
  • Practical considerations in human services research
Teaching Arrangements
There will be compulsory workshops for this paper; information about these will be provided with the course books.

Other teaching arrangements include video conferencing, Blackboard and other distance technology.
Textbooks
Bryman, A. (2012) Social Research Methods (4th Edition). Oxford University Press.
Other required readings will be available on Blackboard.
Course outline
This will be provided with the course book.
Graduate Attributes Emphasised
Communication, Critical thinking.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes.
Learning Outcomes
Outcomes for those undertaking SOWK 520:
  • To have gained an awareness and understanding of important research perspectives, research methods and skills relevant to the field of social services
  • To be able to critically evaluate and apply a wide range of research knowledge and skills to social work practice, policy and documentation
  • To have considered key ethical and cultural issues arising from social services research
  • To have been equipped for the task of undertaking and completing a significant research project

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Timetable

Not offered in 2023

Location
Dunedin
Teaching method
This paper is taught through Distance Learning
Learning management system
Blackboard