2025-2026 Graduate Catalog

LDRS 511 Initiating Critical Inquiry

The first of two courses in the development and execution of the final practicum project. This course lays the foundation for a strong project. The course will review research methodologies that may have been introduced throughout the program. A research question will be developed as well as a strong applicable literature review and a research protocol. The ethics of research, as well as the IRB process and permission procedures, will be covered.

Credits

3

Offered

Fall, Spring, Summer

Outcomes

  1. 1. Recognize and explain various research methodologies and their appropriate application.
  2. 2. Develop a working research question or hypothesis appropriate to a graduate-level, inquiry-based research project.
  3. 3. Develop a relevant literature review.
  4. 4. Develop an appropriate methodological protocol for the project.
  5. 5. Determine appropriate permission steps, including the IRB process.
  6. 6. Analyze potential strengths, limitations, and inherent biases of their proposed methodology.
  7. 7. Submit their methodology to their instructor and/or Program Director for approval.