Course Prefix and Number: ADJ 234

Revised 10/03

NVCC COLLEGE-WIDE COURSE CONTENT SUMMARY

ADJ 235 Research in Criminal Justice ( 3 CR)

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Presents research methodology--including the development of research questions, quantification techniques, collection procedures, analysis tools, and the means of establishing relationships between theory, policy, and practice. Lecture 3 hours per week.

GENERAL COURSE PURPOSE

The purpose of this course is to provide the student with an understanding of data location, research methodology, analysis of research, and preparation of a paper.

ENTRY LEVEL COMPETENCIES

Prerequisite: Completion of all first year and first semester second year courses in the ADJ Program.

COURSE OBJECTIVES/EDUCATIONAL OUTCOME

Upon successful completion of the course, the student will be able to:

a. Demonstrate the ability to develop a research problem and hypothesis(es).

b. Develop a written survey of the literature related to a research problem.

Develop and use a survey instrument or an interview schedule to gather data for a research problem.
Analyze research findings and relate them to the previous research.
Prepare a written research paper on a problem chosen by the student.
Prepare and deliver an oral presentation on their research topic.

MAJOR TOPICS TO BE INCLUDED

Research Notebook

Dimensions of Research Tools of Research

Problem Statement

Writing Research

Learning Resources Center

Internet Research

The Review of the Related Literature

Methodology

Research Methods

Sampling

Data Collection Instrument Construction

OPTIONAL TOPICS Related topics at the discretion of the instructor.