RES 802: Qualitative and Quantitative Research in Education

Course Title: RES 802: Qualitative and Quantitative Research in Education
Subtitle: Integrating Diverse Research Methodologies for Educational Inquiry
Course Name & Level: Qualitative and Quantitative Research in Education, Doctoral Level
Number of Credit Hours: 3 Credit Hours
Keywords: Qualitative Research, Quantitative Research, Educational Research

Introduction:
This course explores advanced principles and practices in both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies within the context of education. Students will develop skills to design, conduct, and analyze research using diverse methodologies to address educational questions effectively.

Course Description:
RES 802 provides an in-depth study of qualitative and quantitative research methods, equipping students with tools to conduct comprehensive and rigorous educational research. The course integrates biblical principles with contemporary research practices to enhance the validity and reliability of research findings.

Course Purpose:
To equip students with advanced skills in qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, promoting rigorous and effective educational research.

Course Objectives:
To develop proficiency in designing, conducting, and analyzing qualitative and quantitative research, fostering a deeper understanding of diverse research methods and their application in educational contexts.

Key Terms Defined & Key Concepts Explained:

• Qualitative Research: Research methods that focus on understanding phenomena through observation and interpretation (Proverbs 20:5).
• Quantitative Research: Research methods that focus on obtaining data through measurable, numerical outcomes (Ecclesiastes 1:13).
• Mixed Methods Research: Integrating qualitative and quantitative methods to provide a comprehensive understanding of research problems (Ecclesiastes 3:1).
• Data Collection: The process of gathering and measuring information on variables of interest (Proverbs 18:15).
• Data Analysis: The process of inspecting, cleansing, transforming, and modeling data to discover useful information (Proverbs 2:6).

Specific Topics with Descriptions:

1. Biblical Foundations for Research:
   Exploring the scriptural basis for research and the pursuit of knowledge, emphasizing wisdom and understanding (Proverbs 2:6).
2. Qualitative Research Design:
   Techniques for designing qualitative research studies, including phenomenology, ethnography, and case studies (Proverbs 20:5).
3. Quantitative Research Design:
   Approaches to designing quantitative research studies, including experimental, correlational, and survey research (Ecclesiastes 1:13).
4. Mixed Methods Research:
   Integrating qualitative and quantitative methods to provide a comprehensive understanding of research problems (Ecclesiastes 3:1).
5. Data Collection Methods:
   Techniques for collecting reliable and valid data using both qualitative and quantitative approaches (Proverbs 18:15).
6. Data Analysis and Interpretation:
   Methods for analyzing and interpreting qualitative and quantitative data to draw meaningful conclusions (Proverbs 2:6).
7. Ethical Considerations in Research:
   Addressing ethical issues related to research, ensuring integrity and respect for participants (Micah 6:8).
8. Writing and Presenting Research Findings:
   Strategies for effectively communicating research findings through writing and presentations (1 Peter 3:15).
9. Evaluating Research Quality:
   Criteria for evaluating the quality and rigor of qualitative and quantitative research (Philippians 1:9-10).
10. Case Studies in Educational Research:
    Analyzing real-world examples of educational research using qualitative and quantitative methods (Acts 6:1-7).

Assessments with Descriptions:

1. Research Proposal:
   Developing a detailed research proposal, including research questions, hypotheses, methodology, and expected outcomes (Proverbs 16:3).
2. Literature Review:
   Conducting a comprehensive review of existing literature on a selected research topic, integrating scriptural references and scholarly sources (Psalm 119:105).
3. Data Collection and Analysis Project:
   Designing and implementing a data collection and analysis project, demonstrating the application of qualitative and quantitative techniques (Proverbs 18:15).
4. Research Paper:
   Writing a 15-20 page research paper on a selected aspect of educational research, presenting findings and interpretations (2 Timothy 2:15).
5. Exams and Quizzes:
   Assessing knowledge and understanding of course materials through periodic exams and quizzes (Proverbs 4:7).
6. Class Participation:
   Active engagement in class discussions, demonstrating comprehension and application of research methods principles (Hebrews 10:24-25).

Research References:

1. Creswell, John W. Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches. SAGE Publications, 2018. eBook.
2. Merriam, Sharan B., and Elizabeth J. Tisdell. Qualitative Research: A Guide to Design and Implementation. Jossey-Bass, 2016. eBook.
3. Fraenkel, Jack R., Norman E. Wallen, and Helen H. Hyun. How to Design and Evaluate Research in Education. McGraw-Hill, 2018. eBook.
4. Patton, Michael Quinn. Qualitative Research & Evaluation Methods. SAGE Publications, 2015. eBook.
5. Mertens, Donna M. Research and Evaluation in Education and Psychology: Integrating Diversity With Quantitative, Qualitative, and Mixed Methods. SAGE Publications, 2014. eBook.

The course centers on King Jesus, His Kingdom, His Holy Spirit, His Royal Family, and His Great Commission as stated in Matthew 28:18-20.