Course Description

A research course for students in the Freedom to Assemble study away program. Each student will conduct independent research on topics related to civil rights broadly, with approval from the instructor. Students will receive guidance on the development of a research question and design component for their final research analysis.

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Athena Title

Civil Rights Research

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Non-Traditional Format

Student meetings will occur one-on-one or in group meetings to discuss research project design and progress.

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Pre or Corequisite

POLS 4708

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Semester Course Offered

Not offered on a regular basis.

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Grading System

A - F (Traditional)

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Student learning Outcomes

• Students will be able to formulate a clear, relevant, and falsifiable research question.
• Students will be able to develop a manageable and appropriate research design that advances an original and informed argument.
• Students will be able to conduct an empirical analysis of their research questions using a variety of research methods. Methods include qualitative research, case study analysis, quantitative research, and mix-methods research.
• Students will gain an in-depth understanding of the civil rights-related issue centered in their research project.
• Students will produce a clearly organized written product to communicate the results of their research product with outside audiences.

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Topical Outline

• 1. Understanding the Scientific Method in Social Science
• 2. Discussion of Civil Rights topics and how to develop a falsifiable research question
• 3. Developing a Road Map for your Research (The Research Prospectus)
• 4. Joining a scholarly conversation (Writing a Literature Review)
• 5. Building your Argument
• 6. Developing a Manageable Research Design/Methodology
• 7. Reporting your results (Analysis Section)

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Institutional Competencies Learning Outcomes

Analytical Thinking

The ability to reason, interpret, analyze, and solve problems from a wide array of authentic contexts.

Communication

The ability to effectively develop, express, and exchange ideas in written, oral, interpersonal, or visual form.

Critical Thinking

The ability to pursue and comprehensively evaluate information before accepting or establishing a conclusion, decision, or action.

Social Awareness & Responsibility

The capacity to understand the interdependence of people, communities, and self in a global society.

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