Time Schedule:
Jan Spyridakis
T C 516
Seattle Campus
Introduction to research methods in technical communication. Students examine the relationship between theory and research, hypothesis testing, experimental designs, modes of observation, sampling, validity, and data analysis and interpretation. Prerequisite: introductory statistics course. Offered: Sp.
Class description
Students learn to conduct empirical research in Technical Communication. Specifically, through lectures, discussions, and and workshops, students learn to:
• Construct a research problem from relevant literature • Identify relevant variables
• Create hypotheses
• Design a research study
• Construct and administer experimental materials and questionnaires • Select and apply appropriate data analysis methods, and interpret results
• Write a research report
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Recommended preparation
Introductory statistics course.
Class assignments and grading
Assignments consist of course readings, analysis of research designs, short written exercises, a research paper, an annotated bibliography, an oral presentation on the research paper, and a midterm quiz. Grades are based on these activities.
For more information, see the course Web site: http://faculty.washington.edu/jansp/TC516
