Course Overview
The goal of Research Design and Implementation is to provide students with the tools and knowledge to effectively design, implement, and use research as the basis for making appropriate decisions in designing and implementing restoration activities. To meet this goal, we will discuss some fundamental concepts including: science, the scientific method, reliable knowledge, poor science, and experimental design. We'll examine how to ask 'why' questions, how to design appropriate research/monitoring plans to address these questions, and how to package this information (including project budgets) into an informative, scientifically-defensible proposal on a chosen ecological restoration activity. This course is designed to strengthen critical thinking skills when reviewing current information and when formulating new activities in ecological restoration. The course is a discussion-based course where concepts and ideas are discussed among the students and by the students.
Prerequisite(s)
- Acceptance into the Ecological Restoration degree program or by departmental approval.
Credits
3.0
- Not offered this term
- This course is not offered this term. Notify me to receive email notifications when the course opens for registration next term.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate the key concepts of 'asking the right questions' and formulating appropriate objectives.
- Explain several current and historic views of the growth of knowledge and scientific methods.
- Outline several major conceptual limitations of research tools, such as hypothesis testing, experimental design, and data analysis techniques.
- Differentiate between 'good science' and 'poor science' (using critical thinking skills) when developing research design, restoration activities, and post-restoration monitoring.
- Develop a research proposal that is scientifically defensible and professional by:
- Demonstrating thorough research and publication review techniques.
- Developing appropriate methodologies for the identified research questions.
- Investigating and developing funding proposals and project budgets.
- Using clear and concise language in appropriate technical style.
- Designing a research plan and formal proposal that is scientifically rigorous and that meets professional standards.
Effective as of Fall 2009
Related Programs
Research Design & Implementation (RENR 8301) is offered as a part of the following programs:
- Indicates programs accepting international students.
- Indicates programs eligible for students to apply for Post-graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
School of Construction and the Environment
- Ecological Restoration
Bachelor of Science Full-time/Part-time
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