WGST 3100

Research Methods in Womens and Gender Studies

An overview of qualitative and quantitative research methods. Covers the fundamentals of qualitative research by exploring the epistemological issues that shape qualitative research design, multiple ways of knowing, the relationship between theory and qualitative research methods, as well as the significance of critical methods in the study of marginalized groups and the other. Matters of subjectivity, positionality, reflexivity, and trustworthiness of qualitative data collection and analysis are addressed. Additionally, the following data collection strategies are discussed: focus groups, interviews, narratives, and ethnographies. Examines the fundamentals of quantitative research, by covering the philosophical tenets and basic assumptions of quantitative research, formulation of research questions and hypothesis testing; data collection, basic descriptive statistics, and issues of reliability and validity. Lastly, addresses: (1) the advantages and disadvantages of both qualitative and qualitative research methods and (2) when it is appropriate to use qualitative versus quantitative, or both.

Units: 3.0