3 semester credits

In this course, students are provided with the opportunity to acquire substantive, foundational knowledge of the philosophy of science, including the construction, use, and critique of concepts and theories. Students examine qualitative and quantitative frameworks for inquiry as well as the ethical, social, and political aspects of conducting research. They learn about quantitative designs, such as experimental and quasi-experimental, survey, causal-comparative, evaluation, and existing action research. In regard to qualitative designs, students examine case study, phenomenology, grounded theory, and ethnography designs. Students complete application exercises to demonstrate their conceptual knowledge of applied research methods in preparation for their doctoral study as well as for problem-solving in professional practice. They also engage in the practical application of writing and critical thinking as they synthesize the relationship between research in management and the promulgation of social change.