Evaluation Research Methods
A Survey of Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches

Description: This course will introduce a range of basic quantitative and qualitative research methods with emphasis on application of these to the evaluation of social programs.  Topics will include observational and qualitative methods, survey and interview (structured and unstructured) techniques, using data from records and archives, experimental and quasi-experimental designs, and data analysis.  Within these approaches, attention will be given to quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method design considerations; and applications to both process and impact evaluation questions will be addressed.  This course is for those who want to update their existing knowledge and skills and will serve as an introduction for those new to the topic. Text provided: Creswell, J. Research Design (Sage 2002).

Instructor: Dr. David Wilson is an Associate Professor in the Administration of Justice Program in the Department of Public and International Affairs at George Mason University. He received his Ph.D. in applied social psychology from Claremont Graduate University. His research interests include program evaluation research methodology, meta-analysis, and the effectiveness of interventions for the rehabilitation of offenders and the prevention of crime and problem behavior. Recent work has focused on correctional boot camps, domestic violence interventions, incarceration-based drug treatment, and school-based prevention programs. He was the 1999 recipient of the Marcia Guttentag award for Early Promise as an Evaluator from the American Evaluation Association.

Certificates:  CEP IA.c and CQEM III.b

Fee: $1150