Apr 28, 2024  
2012-2014 Caspersen School of Graduate Studies Catalog 
    
2012-2014 Caspersen School of Graduate Studies Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

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MDHM 817 - Naturalistic Inquiry

3 credits
Naturalistic inquiry, a form of ethnography, is a qualitative research methodology as opposed to the hypothetico-deductive methodology prevalent in the exact sciences of today. The primary research instrument is the interviewer. Basic techniques include in-depth interviewing and prolonged observation within the natural setting of a group. The interviews and observations are recorded in a “thick description,” which stays close to the actual experience and avoids theory-laden language. This course will provide instruction in the techniques of naturalistic inquiry for designing the study collecting and analyzing data, validating the results, and writing up a case report. This is a hands-on course where each student will be required to conduct a naturalistic inquiry of his or her own. Ideally, the topic would relate to the student’s ultimate thesis or dissertation topic. The course will also provide instruction in using computerized tools to assist in data analysis.



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