1. Course Description
This course is particularly relevant to those who will be decision makers because it will provide one with an overarching understanding of many of the applied research methodologies that are relevant to scholars and practitioners in the arts administration field. This course stresses the identification of the appropriate research methodology as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each. Also to be stressed are the real world factors associated with the research process.
2. Course Objectives
The student will be presented with and understand the application of the following:
a. Research Design - including the costs, benefits and consequences of the choices of various approaches. Sampling strategies.
b. Focus Group Research - design, process and analysis.
c. Survey Research - including telephone, mail, web and intercept techniques.
d. Content Analysis - including text based and observational approaches.
e. Research Issues - including project management, in-house versus consultant research, interactions in large multi-site studies, collaborative use of data, and public versus private research.
3. Course Content
Principal topics and number of sessions devoted to each will be approximately two (2) sessions to each of the above items (listed in the course objectives). Special emphasis will be place on the applications of each of the above methodologies. The course will serve as an introduction to the student as both a provider and consumer of applied research. The course will provide an introduction to specific computer applications as well as services that may be employed to undertake applied research. This course will also introduce qualitative methods.
4. Presentation and Evaluation
Lectures, readings, observations and application exercises of applied techniques. Evaluation based upon mid-term project (30 %), exercises (30 %) and final examination project (40 %).
5. Course Materials
Reading list and locally produced materials as well as software available at Drexel University.
Required Text:
Research Methods in the Social Sciences (Hardcover or Paper back)
by David Nachmias, Chava Frankfort Nachmias (Most recent edition is 1999).
Recommended readings:
The Survey Handbook by Arlene Fink
How to sample in Surveys by Arlene Fink
Focus groups: A practical guide by Richard Krueger
Readings listed for class meetings. Check weekly.
ArtAdm 765 Applied Methods Class Resources