AP/HREQ 4600 6.00
Research Seminar
(Cross-listed as AP/INDG 4600 6.00)
This seminar adopts an advanced approach to research and interpretation, including data collection and analysis within a relevant theoretical framework. Students develop a research question, formulate a thesis, and complete a substantial research project with a critical human rights and equity focus.
This course provides an opportunity for the development and completion of a substantial project in research and writing at a more advanced level. The course seeks : first, to provide the conceptual tools necessary for a more critical and comprehensive understanding of research by interrogating intersectional and interlocking social bases of justice; second, to acquire an appreciation of classic and contemporary debates regarding the research enterprise; and, third, to assess the impact of questions on research strategies. Students will be introduced to a set of skills that enable the development of a critical appreciation of theories and models of collaborative experiential methods as alternative problems solving models. Session topics will be determined by the interests and learning needs of the class, but will include the following themes: the purposes and value of research in academia and everyday life; formulating researchable questions; ethical research; how research and knowledge is framed within and by disciplines, paradigms and methods; and structures and strategies for communicating and translating research findings. The sessions and assignments will also provide extensive opportunities to assess major research paradigms, methodology and methods research by critically appraising evidence or arguments based on these methods, and making informed decisions about the methodological approaches most appropriate for critical human rights.
Course credit exclusion: Prior to Fall 2019: AP/MIST 4600 6.00
Prerequisites: 78 credits, including AP/HREQ 1010 6.00 (formerly AP/HREQ 2010 6.00), AP/HREQ 2030 6.00, and AP/HREQ 3100 6.00, or permission from the Undergraduate Program Director.