Research Methods in Behavioral Sciences

Course Number: 47894

This course provides an introduction to research methodology applicable to organizational behavior and other related fields. The course will survey the major research methodologies used in organizational behavior and social/personality psychology, and will focus on both theoretical and practical considerations of research methods. This is not a statistics course (though an introduction to basic principles is part of the course). The purpose of the course is to give you the background to choose the methods that are most appropriate for your area of study, help you anticipate the shortcomings and problems you will encounter executing your chosen methodologies, and to defend your methodological choices against criticism in your interactions with investigators from allied and not so-allied disciplines. Your grade will consist of: 1) Participation & Professionalism (30% of class grade); 2) Weekly Presentation (30% of class grade); 3) Final Project (40% of class grade).

 

Degree: PhD
Concentration: Organizational Behavior and Theory
Academic Year: 2023-2024
Semester(s): Mini 1
Required/Elective: Elective
Units: 6

Format

Lecture: 100min/wk and Recitation: 50min/wk

Textbook(s):

Journal articles, book chapters

Learning Objectives

• Gain a broad understanding of the major research methodologies used in organizational behavior, social/personality psychology and related behavioral sciences.
• Improve your analytical abilities for evaluating social science research.
• Develop your skills at independently planning and designing a multi-method research project.
• Develop a toolkit of useful skills, strategies, and approaches for conducting social sciences research via a variety of different methods.