3 Units
This course provides students with basic concepts of qualitative research methods and their application in social policy research. This course will enhance the analytical ability of students to identify the relevant research methods and their strengths and weaknesses in doing social policy research. Specific topics include: qualitative policy research, descriptive qualitative analysis, methods of research design, case study research, field research and research ethics. The research process such as formulation of research question in relation to public policies, theoretical sampling, qualitative data collection and analysis, and methods for secondary analysis and comparative approach will also be emphasized. This course will also examine the uses of qualitative methods for policy reviews and evaluation purposes.