Analytical Techniques for Public Service I and II Tacoma

• Understand research designs and why we do research in public service.
• Competency in quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methodologies.
• Understand how research can maintain the status quo or change our social, economic, and political decisions.
• Understand various research methods.
• Become an ethical producer and consumer of research.

1. What are the paradigms of social science? How are paradigms used in PA?
2. What is involved in producing data vs. information?
3. How is research produced and consumed in everyday public service?
4. What are valid and reliable data? What are causal and correlated data?
5. What drives research design? What are the consequences of design choices?

To successfully participate in this program students need access to a computer or smart phone and reliable internet. Students can expect synchronous meetings using Canvas and Zoom. Students will have access to alternatives to synchronous (in person or remote) participation if conditions require. 

Winter Quarter:

In the winter quarter, we will respond to the following questions:

1. How do we analyze and interpret quantitative and qualitative data?
2. How do we turn data into information for decisions?
3. How do we present audience specific useful information?

 Via praxis, our goal is to practice research design and analysis. Our intent is to gain a better understanding of how to approach, critique, use, analyze, and communicate research in public service.

Learning objectives include:

• Develop knowledge, skills, and abilities as competent and critical producers/consumers of data, information, and analysis.
• Understand the practical applications of analytical techniques in public service.
• Develop the critical ability to situate social science concepts and techniques within the practice of public service.
• Develop the skill of presenting data as information for decision making.