Courses to build research skills

Anthropology

ANTH 326 (3) Ethnographic Research

An opportunity to utilize qualitative research methodology in researching Canadian culture and society. Topics include participant observation and interviewing; problems in doing fieldwork; organization of research materials; writing descriptive ethnographies. Includes field research. Working with international students will give anthropology students a new perspective on their own culture.

ANTH 418 (3) Researching Community

A practical course that can be applied to any of the four subfields. The intention is to engage students in projects affiliated with the Community-Based Research Institute or other similar community endeavours. ANTH 418 may be taken more than once if the topic is different.

ANTH 460 (3) Material Culture Analysis

This combined seminar and lab course introduces methods of material culture analysis. Hands-on, using materials from recent and distant times, emphasis is on archaeological laboratory procedures for classification, quantification, description, recording, analysis, and interpretation. Incorporates textual, experimental and ethnoarchaeological approaches to understand the relationship between material culture and culture. ANTH 460 was formerly called ANTH 460; credit will not be granted for both courses.

Biology

Throughout a biology student's degree they are exposed to specific research skills in various classes, particularly in your second year. In some courses you will learn presentation skills, in others how to do a literature review, in others how to write a scientific report. This is on top of the discipline specific skills you will learn in lab and classroom settings. Once you get all those sorted out, you are ready to take on a research project!

BIOL 491 (6) Undergraduate Research Project

An opportunity to work on a research project under the direct supervision of faculty. Students will develop research proposals with their faculty supervisor, carry out the research and prepare a full scientific report. Presentation of the proposal and a report on the results are required at two seminars. Encompasses both Fall and Spring semesters for any given academic year. Note: A Faculty Advisor Endorsement form is required for registration. See department Chair for details.

Chemistry

CHEM 212 (3) Environmental Chemical Analysis

Introduction to quantitative chemical analysis of water, sediments and biological samples. Additional topics include environmental sampling, quality control and the application of statistics in a laboratory setting. Labs include the analysis of dissolved gases, nutrient ions, metals and organic contaminants by volumetric, electrochemical, spectroscopic and chromatographic methods.

CHEM 213 (3) Practical Spectroscopy

An advancement of the principles and application of a variety of spectroscopic methods for the analysis and characterization of organic and inorganic molecules. Included are UV-visible, infrared, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, as well as mass spectrometric methods.

CHEM 351 (3) Integrated Organic and Inorganic Laboratory

This laboratory builds competency in techniques used in organic and inorganic synthesis, separations and spectroscopic characterization. Students work independently on experiments and contribute data to some team projects. Procedures for handling air and water sensitive reagents will be advanced.

Child and Youth Care

CYC 323 (3) Research in the Field of Child and Youth Care

Introduces students to ways in which knowledge in the CYC field is developed and helps them to foster skills in the organization and analysis of research in the professional literature. Topics explore the range of research techniques and methods after which students will develop a formal research proposal.

HSD 425 (3) Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis

An opportunity to gain grounding in techniques commonly used in the analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data. Students engage in the process of qualitative analysis through examining qualitative data, data coding, and thematic construction. A range of descriptive and inferential statistical approaches to quantitative analysis are examined using a computer-based system.

Computing Science

CSCI 260 (3) Data Structures

An examination of various methods of representing and manipulating data, including internal representation of data, stacks, queues, linked lists, trees and graphs. Analysis of algorithms will also be discussed extensively.

CSCI 375 (3) Intro to Systems Analysis

The methods and methodologies used in analyzing and designing various types of systems. Topics include project definition, CASE tools, data gathering, structured analysis and design, human-machine interface, database design, system controls, hardware selection and system testing, implementation and operation. Students are assigned to a project team involved in a system study as part of the course.

CSCI 491 (6) Senior Research Project

An opportunity for student experience in research and development under the supervision of a faculty member in Computing Science. Project duration is two academic terms during which time a student must develop an approved project proposal, carry out the required research and development, prepare a written report detailing results, and satisfy any additional requirements as specified in the approved project proposal.

Criminology

CRIM 220 (3) Research Methods in Criminology

An introduction to criminological research and the methods used to collect data, focusing on scientific inquiry, research techniques, theory construction and data analysis.

CRIM 350 (3) Qualitative Research Methods

The course prepares students to use qualitative methods and analysis for conducting social research. Topics include qualitative interviewing, content analysis, observation, field research, and participatory action research.

CRIM 351 (3) Quantitative Research Methods

An examination of quantitative methods for conducting research. Topics include conceptualization, literature reviews, developing testable hypotheses, operationalizing variables, and data analysis using bivariate and multivariate techniques with Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS).

Dental Hygiene

DENH 176 (2) Research Methodology

An introduction to basic concepts of research methodology. Topics include application of research principles to the dental and dental hygiene professions, evidence-based practice, as well as current dental and dental hygiene research needs.

Digital Media

DIGI 280 (3) Digital Video I

An introduction to digital video production utilizing current concepts, practices, and technologies. Students will be exposed to all aspects of digital video production with a focus on essential equipment and skills. Students will complete projects that build solid technical proficiencies while developing creative expression. Students from all disciplines welcome!

DIGI 281 (3) Digital Video II

This course will focus on applications of digital video production. Students will learn how to apply the skills they learned in DIGI 280 by focusing on their own productions. Students will work in various genres directed by their chosen fields of study. Students will complete two major projects.

DIGI 340 (3) Digital Social Narratives

An exploration of the theories, practices and technologies used to create and participate in contemporary digital social narratives. Topics include listserves, blogs, games, discussion groups, wikis and other developing electronic narrative environments. Students will actively research and create virtual narrative spaces based on subjects of their own interest.

DIGI 496 (3) Senior Digital Media Project

This course requires students to demonstrate mastery of one or more digital media technologies though the completion of a senior level project. Topics will include technical planning, testing and evaluation, and project maintenance. Students will chose their own projects, which may include elements completed for credit in another class.

INTR 101 (6) Digital Media and Literature

Combines ENGL 125 and DIGI 110 in an integrated learning environment. Students will explore the relation between literature and digital media and their historical and cultural contexts. This course emphasizes reading, research, writing, and introductory digital media skills. Readings, assignments, and assessment will be shared in an interdisciplinary environment. Note: Students will receive course exemption for DIGI 110 and ENGL 125 upon completion.

English

ENGL 115 (3) University Writing and Research

An introduction to critical thinking and reading, academic writing, and research skills, consistent with the conditions and expectations students encounter as readers and writers at university.

ENGL 204 (3) Business and Technical Writing

An introduction to business and technical communication skills with a focus on documents (such as letters and reports) and presentations. Topics may include planning, outlining, summarizing, presenting data, handling references, and editing. The course comprises several practical assignments, including a formal report and an oral presentation.

ENGL 208 (3) Introduction to Public Speaking: Communication

An introduction to public speaking that focuses on the creation, organization, and delivery of speeches for non-dramatic purposes. It provides the rhetorical principles of effective and ethical public speaking, offers opportunities to become familiar with different speaking situations, and attempts to instil a sense of the importance of public speech.

ENGL 240 (3) Ways of Reading

topical examination of different theoretical approaches to analyzing literature familiarizes students with major critical terms and their practical application in the understanding of literature. The course emphasizes reading, research, and writing. Analytical approaches vary.

ENGL 304 (3) Advanced Professional Writing

This course will focus on strengthening writing, editing, research, and presentation skills. Topics may include proposals, reports, writing in a digital environment, meeting skills, evaluations and reference letters, and presentations with audio/video components. Assignments may include an experiential learning component.

ENGL 408 (3) Advanced Public Speaking: Communication

An advanced course on the civic nature on public speaking. Emphasis is placed on effective listening, ethical principles, audience and speech analysis, and appropriate technologies. Course focuses on professional presentations to different audiences and may include an experiential component.

ENGL 480 (3) Research Methods

An opportunity to enhance research skills, explore a variety of literary critical approaches and their theoretical foundations, and consider the impact of digital technologies on our discipline. May include proposal writing, rhetorical issues, varieties of collaboration, information literacy, and scholarly communication.

INTR 100 (6) Popular Culture and University Writing

A combination of ENGL 115 and MEDI 115 in an integrated learning environment. Students will explore the core concepts of popular culture and university writing and research. Readings, assignments, and assessment will be shared in an interdisciplinary environment.

Education

EDPB 512 (3) Secondary Teaching Specialties

Students will inquire into "promising practices" in their specialty area and explore pedagogical tensions and possibilities related to their teaching practice. Students will engage in research, collaboration, discussion, and critical reflection with the aim of further developing their expertise about teaching, learning, and literacy at the secondary level.

EDTE 531 (3) Social Justice Issues in Education

An exposé of social justice issues in an educational context. Students will acquire initial understanding of the complex nature of discrimination, including its different manifestations in recent and contemporary society. Students are required to develop appropriate anti-oppression teaching strategies and material.

Fisheries and Aquaculture

FISH 191T (1) Project in Husbandry I

The commencement of a project which will continue through all four semesters of the program. A progress report is required at the end of each semester. The project will be approved by a faculty Advisor who supervises the work throughout the four semesters.

FISH 192T (1) Project in Aquaculture II

A continuation of FISH 191T with a second progress report required.

FISH 291T (1) Project in Aquaculture III

A continuation of FISH 191T and FISH 192T, requiring a third progress report.

FISH 292T (1) Project in Aquaculture IV

The final course in the project series (FISH 191T, FISH 192T, and FISH 291T). A final report may be required detailing the methods and results of all four semesters.

FISH 392 (3) Project in Husbandry IV

The final course in the project series. A final report is required detailing the methods and results of all four semesters.

FISH 491 (6) Undergraduate Research Project

An introduction to research methods. In conjunction with a faculty supervisor, students develop a research proposal during the spring prior to their research, implement the research, prepare a formal written scientific report, and give a verbal presentation of the results of the research.

Forestry

FRST 201 (3) Research and Communications

An introduction to basic principles and methods of research with an emphasis on forest resources. Topics include: the scientific method, experimental design, field methods, reporting, literature review, presentation skills and public speaking. Students undertake a simple research project and summarize results in an oral presentation and written report.

French

FRCH 300 (3) Critical Analysis and Writing Skills

A course for students who have strong French language skills, designed to expand and improve their competence in written French at the professional and/or academic level: text analysis and commentary, reviews, narrative and descriptive writing, correspondence, and dissertations.

Geography

GEOG 324 (3) Research Methods in Geography

An introduction to quantitative and qualitative research methods related to Geography. Topics include ethics, constructing research proposals and reports, conducting research in the field, sampling and data collection, data analysis, and ways of presenting data.

GEOG 490 (3) Directed Studies in Geography

A research project designed to address individual student interest in some aspect of geography. Projects will typically include some combination of library research, spatial analysis, and fieldwork. Content must be demonstrated to be independent of the GEOG 491 research topic.

Geology

GEOL 115 (3) Laboratory and Field Studies in Earth Science

An introduction to Earth Science through laboratory and field studies. Laboratory studies include: investigation of the properties and identification of minerals and rocks, examination of unconsolidated materials and solving geological problems. Field studies will introduce rock examination in outcrop, data collection and preparation of geological maps and reports.

GEOL 206 (3) Geological Field Methods and Mapping

An introduction to geological field methods and mapping. Students will make geological observations in the field, record data in field notes, and prepare geological maps. Topics include: field safety, logistics, navigation, field mapping techniques and data collection, interpretation of geological data and maps, and communicating geological information.

GEOL 491 (6) Research Project in Geoscience

An opportunity to work on a year-long research project in geoscience under the direct supervision of a faculty member. Students will develop a research proposal, carry out data collection using field and/or laboratory studies, and complete a final report/presentation. This work must be distinct from a student's GEOL 490 project.

Graphic Arts

ARTG 272 (3) Presentation Studio

Students learn how to communicate effectively in the absence of the spoken word, and how to leverage type in conjunction with the spoken word and imagery to create compelling arguments for any topic. Students will craft presentation-based communication, and master the ability to deliver that same presentation to an audience.

ARTG 474 (3) UI-UX IV

A capstone research course in user-interaction and user-interface design, focusing on user-centred design. Students will develop and design a semester-long major project, drawing on their work in usability heuristics and various design methodologies from prior courses to design a site/application for desktop and mobile devices.

ARTG 480 (3) Design Research Project

A detailed study of a communication problem resulting in a final project involving complex multi-part graphic design, illustration and design process management, designed with the specific goals and needs of each individual fourth year student.

ARTG 482 (3) Design Research

Students learn design specific research methods and apply these methods in a variety of real-world challenges.

Hospitality Management

HOSP 357 (3) Advanced Research Methods in Hospitality Management

An applied research course focusing on methods appropriate for hospitality initiatives. Students will develop an understanding of the fundamental concepts in developing and utilizing research for decision-making. Students will apply the techniques through engagement in applied research projects.

HOSP 358 (3) Data Analysis for Decision Making in Hospitality Management

One of the challenges facing hospitality professionals is the ability to access timely and useful research to aid in decision making. The focus of this course is on the analysis and application of quantitative and qualitative data to provide information for leisure management decisions.

Indigenous/Xwulmuxw Studies

FNAT 400 (6) Applied Community Research Institute

An advanced, community-based research seminar in which students learn and apply skills in team-building, group leadership, developing partnerships with Aboriginal communities, creating culturally responsive research agendas and protocols, and managing data and research outcomes. A new project is initiated each year. Intended for First Nations Majors and Minors.

INDG 403 (6) Senior Project and Indigenous Research Methods

Students will 1) engage with current academic literature and ideas regarding indigenous research methodologies, and 2) produce a major research paper or scholarly project involving a topic relevant to Indigenous/Xwulmuxw Studies. Students will present their essay or project at a public conference.

Interdisciplinary Studies

INTR 100 (6) Popular Culture and University Writing

A combination of ENGL 115 and MEDI 115 in an integrated learning environment. Students will explore the core concepts of popular culture and university writing and research. Readings, assignments, and assessment will be shared in an interdisciplinary environment. Note: students will receive course exemption for ENGL 115 and MEDI 115 upon completion.

INTR 103 (6) World Regional Geography and University Writing

A combination of ENGL 115 and GEOG 100 in an integrated learning environment. An introduction to world regional geography and university writing and research. Readings, assignments, and assessment will be shared in an interdisciplinary environment. Note: students will receive course exemption for ENGL 115 and GEOG 100 upon completion.

Interior Design

ARTI 271 (1.5) Interior Design I

This research-based course involves a detailed investigation of the interior design implications and issues in retail and hospitality (food services) design. Students must demonstrate their understanding of the idiosyncrasies of these specialized areas. This course will provide the background required for studio projects in related course ARTI 242.

ARTI 270 (1.5) Interior Design II

This research-based course involves a detailed investigation of the interior design implications of multi-family residential and issues in commercial office design. Students must demonstrate their understanding of the idiosyncrasies of these specialized areas. This course will provide the background required for studio projects in related course ARTI 232.

ARTI 330 (3) Design Theory: Contemporary Issues II

A continuation of the study of the designer's role in society. Topics include the designer as change agent and leader. Environmental issues and sustainable design practices are the focus of this course with global issues and international practice as included themes. Research and critical analysis approach continues.

ARTI 342 (3) Concept to Production III

An investigation of advanced interior design problems focusing on public spaces and facilities: community centres and places of worship. The course structure follows ARTI 232 and ARTI 242 with greater depth and breadth of research. Projects involve detailed problem-solving from concept development to presentation, and include 3D computer aided drawings.

ARTI 370 (1.5) Interior Design III

This research-based course involves a detailed investigation of the interior design implications and issues in community spaces and in places of worship. Students must demonstrate their understanding of the idiosyncrasies of these specialized areas. This course will provide the background required for studio projects in related course ARTI 342.

ARTI 371 (1.5) Interior Design IV

This research-based course involves a detailed investigation of the interior design implications and issues related to hospitality and lodging facilities. Students must demonstrate their understanding of the idiosyncrasies of these specialized areas. This course will provide the background required for studio projects in related course ARTI 352.

ARTI 440 (6) Major Project: Research Stage

An advanced study of an individually selected interior design project to be declared by students in consultation with faculty. Semester work entails research, concept development, and detailed documentation. Students will prepare a schematic list of works to be produced in order to fully describe their design solution in ARTI 442.

ARTI 442 (6) Major Project: Presentation and Working Drawings

A continuation of ARTI 440. Semester work includes production of presentation drawings and sample boards to bring final designs to fruition. Students will develop working drawings including floor and ceiling plans and interior elevations. Public presentation of final project is required.

ARTI 454 (3) Professional Presentation Skills

An advanced study of 3-D spatial drawings, illustrative materials, digital and traditional media, and design portfolios showcasing breadth of work, self-marketing, event planning, and exhibition design. Focus is on preparation for and facilitation of Interior Design's "Year-End" show.

Liberal Studies

LBST 450 (3) The Human Condition: Questions Past and Present

This capstone course brings primary texts from the Western tradition into conversation with contemporary thinkers around a shared theme, e.g. happiness and the good life. The course explores how secondary sources are in dialogue with primary works. Students will develop the research and analytical skills to engage in these dialogues.

 

Marketing

MARK 366 (3) Market Research

An analysis of the principles, techniques and practices used to design, administer, and analyze market research. Topics include qualitative and quantitative approaches to marketing problems, computer applications, and statistical concepts relevant to market research.

MARK 460 (3) Strategic Marketing

The study of market strategy in a variety of organizations and industries. Focus is on the new competitive marketing environment, key performance indicators, sustainable advantage and marketing systems. Case studies, simulations, research and marketing plans provide applied integrative emphasis.

Mathematics (Statistics is here!)

MATH 161 (3) Introduction to Statistics for Social Sciences

An introduction to statistics for non-science students. Topics include descriptive statistics, basic probability techniques, random variables and commonly occurring probability distributions, applications including confidence intervals and hypothesis testing, chi-square tests, and simple linear regression and correlation. May not be taken for credit towards the VIU B.Sc. Degree.

MATH 181 (3) Introduction to Statistics

An introduction to statistics for the technology programs. Topics include descriptive statistics, probability, probability distributions, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, linear regression, correlation and chi-square tests.

MATH 203 (3) Biometrics

A statistical course designed for biology majors. Topics include descriptive statistics, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, multiple regression, sampling techniques, analysis of variance and non-parametric techniques with a statistical computer software involvement and numerous simulation studies.

MATH 211 (3) Fundamentals of Statistics I

A non-calculus introduction to probability and statistics. Topics include descriptive statistics, elementary concepts in probability, random variables and probability distributions, distribution of the sample mean and the central limit theorem, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, chi-square tests and simple linear regression.

MATH 254 (3) Statistics I

A calculus-based introduction to statistics. Topics include an introduction to probability including conditional probability and independence, discrete and continuous random variables and their probability distributions, joint distributions, expectation, sampling distributions and the central limit theorem, point estimation, confidence intervals and hypothesis testing (both single and two sample), correlation and linear regression, and chi-square procedures.

Media Studies

INTR 100 (6) Popular Culture and University Writing

A combination of ENGL 115 and MEDI 115 in an integrated learning environment. Students will explore the core concepts of popular culture and university writing and research. Readings, assignments, and assessment will be shared in an interdisciplinary environment. Note: students will receive course exemption for ENGL 115 and MEDI 115 upon completion.

MEDI 300 (3) Research Methods in Media Studies

This course reviews basic principles of research methodology. Students will be presented with the purpose and theories behind various methodological approaches, and will identify and evaluate the relevance of various research methods and approaches in media and cultural analysis. Students will also learn to critically evaluate research findings.

MEDI 401 (3) Public Relations, Advocacy and the Media

A survey of the powerful role public relations and promotion play in contemporary society. An exploration of how different media may be used for advocacy and social activism. As a major assignment, students analyze accessible media, and design a campaign to promote an issue of concern to them.

Music

MUSC 450 (2) Applied Performance Project

The culmination of four years' work resulting in a juried concert/recital. A seminar designed as a means of organizing and managing the projects.

MUSC 482 (2) Jazz Arranging, Aural Skills and Composition IV

Students will compose and arrange several pieces that will be played by an ensemble which may be used to fulfill some of the requirements of the Applied Performance Project. Compositions may be written entirely for one type of ensemble, for example, Big Band, or a variety of ensembles.

Nursing

NURS 313 (3) Professional Practice IV: Nursing Inquiry

Building upon concepts introduced in Professional Practice I, II, and III, participants will explore the historical and philosophical approaches to the development of nursing knowledge and inquiry. Relationships between practice, theory, and research are explored.

NURS 403 (3) Professional Practice VI: Nursing Research

An investigative study of nursing scholarship, the research process, and utilization of nursing research. Topics include critical reflection on research methodologies, the ethics of inquiry, and posing research questions to enable examination of nursing practice leading to evidence-informed outcomes.

NURS 414 (12) Nursing Practice VIII: Transition to Graduate Nurse

Advanced consolidation of learning and nursing competency development for transition to the role of Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduate. Using a leadership perspective, participants explore and critique emerging health care issues, ethics of nursing practice, and utilization of research evidence to inform nursing practice.

Philosophy

PHIL 252 (3) Understanding Scientific Reasoning

Next offered: Spring 2020

An examination of scientific literacy. Critical thinking skills developed include identifying types of arguments, understanding and evaluating reports of scientific findings, and discovering patterns of reasoning that are common to most sciences. The course is practical and general in nature.

PHIL 370 (3) Philosophy and Social Science

An examination of issues arising from social science about the nature of personhood and the explanation of human social activity. Questions such as the following will be addressed: What is explanation? Is action merely behaviour? Should social science be like natural science? Can qualitative and quantitative research both be legitimate?

PHIL 420 (3) Issues in Philosophy and Film

An exploration of films as texts for the study of philosophical issues including the ways in which the medium of cinematic film can both reveal and conceal 'reality' and challenge or reinforce our assumptions about human identity, perception, aesthetics, politics, and gender. A research paper is required.

Physical Education

PHED 391 (3) Research Methods in Physical Activity

An examination of the research process in physical activity. Topics include formulating a question, methodology, basic statistics, evaluation, presentation, ethics, and applicable computer applications that are used in the research process.

PHED 400 (3) Applied Movement Analysis

A course that focuses on acquiring and applying movement knowledge and skills in a range of movement contexts. This course will examine the physical laws of nature and skill analysis as they apply to physical activity in a variety of settings and discuss methods of quantitative and qualitative analysis.

PHED 491 (3) Scholarship in Sport, Health, and Physical Education

A seminar-based course where students have the opportunity to engage in the scholarship of discovery, application, and teaching using knowledge they have gained in the multidisciplinary field of physical education. Students are required to plan and implement a project that demonstrates a depth of knowledge in a physical education related topic.

Political Studies

POLI 445 (3) Canadian Political Culture and Elections

The course will examine questions concerning civic education and political participation, particularly among young people in Canada. Is civic participation a right? An obligation? Both? Why do some eligible voters not vote? What influences political participation rates? Students will be expected to design a research project examining BC electoral behavior.

Psychology

PSYC 204 (3) Research Methods

An introduction to basic research methods with emphasis on the experimental method, design problems and associated statistical techniques, including hypothesis testing. Laboratory experience includes conducting experiments, data analysis and report generation using APA style guidelines.

PSYC 300A (3) Statistical Methods in Psychology I

A brief review of research methodology; univariate description, bivariate description, and an introduction to probability and inferential statistics as applied in Psychology. Introduction to microcomputer software and computer based analyses of statistical procedures covered in the course.

PSYC 300B (3) Statistical Methods in Psychology II

This course contains a brief review of the topics covered in 300A and deals with statistical analysis procedures for two-group and multi-group experimental designs. The focus is on t-tests and analysis of variance. The differences between repeated measures and independent group designs and analyses are emphasized. Students are expected to analyze an experimental data set using the appropriate statistical procedures, and to prepare a research report.

PSYC 400 (3) Applied Methods in Psychology

Provides the critical thinking and research skills necessary to design and conduct research in a variety of applied settings. An introduction to a variety of research design, measurement and analytical strategies, as well as the writing of grant proposals and reports. PSYC 400 was formerly called PSYC 399; credit will not be granted for both courses.

Quantitative Methods

QUME 232 (3) Business Statistics I

An overview of descriptive and inferential statistical techniques used in business. Topics include graphing, measures of central tendency, dispersion, sampling, hypothesis testing and regression analysis. CPA transfer available.

QUME 436 (3) Econometrics

A continuation of QUME 232. Topics include ANOVA, the linear regression model and multiple regression models, time series analysis, index numbers and decision making including linear programming. 

Recreation & Sport Management

RMGT 251 (3) Assessment and Evaluation Methods in Recreation

The focus of this course is on introducing students to common methods of assessing recreation needs and evaluating recreation programs. Topics covered in this course include methods of assessment and evaluation, research ethics, data collection and analysis, knowledge mobilization, and utilizing results.

Resource Management Officer Courses

RMOT 357 (3) Research Methods in Natural Resource Management

An examination of the theory and practice involved in planning and conducting research, including data analysis techniques and report preparation. Specific discussion and examples are directed towards the natural resource management area.

Social Work

SOCW 402 (3) Research Methods for Social Change in Community Social Work

An exploration of methods and methodology for community based research with a focus on exploring and changing social situations/issues. Grounded in critical social work, this course will allow students opportunities to integrate the concepts and skills they have developed. Topics include participation methods, ethically sensitive research, power, and oppression.

Sociology

SOCI 250 (3) Introduction to Social Research

An introduction to concepts and strategies of social science research: current methodological issues, quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis, and an introduction to computer-assisted data analysis.

SOCI 351 (3) Quantitative Research and Analysis

Designed to develop quantitative research and data analysis skills and the ability to critique quantitative studies. Topics may include survey research, use of archival data and experimental designs. Students will learn the application of statistical concepts using SPSS for data analysis.

Tourism Management

TOUR 251 (3) Market Research in Tourism

This course examines tourism market research methodologies to identify the most appropriate target market(s) and assesses associated marketing investments. Topics include profiling outbound traveler demographics and trip characteristics, determining existing and potential market sizes, analysing traveler perceptions towards tourism products, examining brand image, and conducting competitive analyses of destinations.

TRMT 330 (3) Niche Tourism

Niche Tourism references specialized tourism products and experiences that appeal to dedicated tourism markets. This course focuses on the skills needed to research, recognize, and evaluate the needs of diverse market niches to understand their interests, psychographics, and participation patterns in ways that enable the development and satisfaction of niche markets in tourism.

TRMT 357 (3) Applied Research & Evaluation Methods in Tourism

This course focuses on the design and implementation of applied research to provide evidence to managers and decision makers involved in recreation and tourism development. The content will enable learners to understand and apply fundamental concepts in research practice including research design and data collection.

TRMT 358 (3) Data Analysis for Decision Making in Tourism

One of the challenges facing tourism and recreation professionals is the ability to access timely and useful research to aid in decision making. The focus of this course is on the analysis and application of quantitative and qualitative data to provide information for leisure management decisions.

TRMT 462 (3) Strategic Leadership and Innovation in Recreation and Tourism

This course examines of the importance and use of strategic leadership and innovative thinking to issues and trends in recreation and tourism. Learners will identify key issues, trends and opportunities and apply innovative management strategies to address human resources, leadership, planning and policy, finance, marketing, and research.