SOWK 792: Social Work Research:  Research Data Analysis

Course Syllabus

I. Purpose/ Rationale for the Course

Social workers have a responsibility to contribute to the profession’s body of knowledge, to evaluate and utilize the knowledge generated by others, and to be able to use appropriate data analysis to evaluate their own practice effectiveness. To do so, they must possess an understanding of those statistical methods of data analysis that are most frequently used for data reduction and for hypothesis testing, and be able to conduct statistical analysis using computer-assisted methods.

II. Content of the Course

This course is a study of descriptive and inferential statistics, with a focus on those methods most frequently used in social work research and practice. Special emphasis is placed upon the ethical interpretation of statistical findings. Students also receive “hands-on” experience in the use of personal computers for data analysis.

III. Course Objectives

Students who successfully complete this course will be able to:

1.      Create a computer data file, and use a computer to produce tables, graphs, plots, and descriptive statistics of research data.

2.      Interpret tables, graphs, plots, and descriptive statistics of research data.

3.      Select, apply, and interpret various statistical tests of hypothesis in order to draw and justify inferences based on research data.

4.      Apply research findings to practice questions, in order to increase accountability in practice.

5.      Discuss the implications of various choices regarding data analysis and reporting for populations at risk, and identify choices which are consistent with the NASW Code of Ethics.

IV. Linkages to Other Courses

This course is linked horizontally and vertically with other courses within the curriculum. As a foundation year course, it is linked horizontally with, and reinforces, conceptual understanding developed in SOWK 791, which focuses on basic research concepts. It supports the field experience, as students apply their learning in research projects during field placements. The course is linked vertically to SOWK 793, in which students reinforce and expand their understanding of research methods and data analysis.

V. Methods of Instruction

This course will employ a lecture-discussion format, with additional instructional methods used where appropriate, including classroom instruction on use of computers for accessing and analyzing data.

Any student who because of a disability may need special arrangements or accommodations to meet the requirements of this course should consult with the instructor as soon as possible.  The Office of Disability Services provides an array of services to meet the needs of students with disabilities, according to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990.  See information and guidelines provided in The Carolina Community: Student Handbook and Policy Guide.