Schedule/Week 1:

WEEK 1: Finding Your Research Question.

We begin by identifying three things students hope to get out of the colloquium.
These items serve not only to provide a colloquium format which meets as many of
the shared needs of students as possible, but also a way of assessing how well
students are doing at meeting their individual needs within the colloquium setting.

Next, students are introduced to the differences between theoretical and applied or
practitioner research, between qualitative and quantitative research, and between
naturalistic and experimental research. They are also introduced to the concept of
problem-based learning.

Students then identify an applied research project from their Learning Plans,
formulate a research question, and begin to structure a research strategy. Special
attention will be paid to the formulation of collaborative learning projects, espe-
cially through the use of discussion groups and E-mail through DePaul On-line;
the Director of Distance Learning Programs, David Levin, will facilitate.
PLEASE NOTE: Some part of this evening will be spent in computer lab LC-1308.
However, unless you are otherwise notified, please go first to our assigned classroom
(check the classroom assignments posted on the first floor of Lewis Center).

There will be no student presentations tonight.

Homework: Using the problem-based learning grid, generate at least five "hunches"
about how to answer the research question you have formulated for your applied
research project; please generate at least one silly hunch. Then begin to complete
the grid by defining what you already know, what you still need to know, and what
would help you see your question more clearly.

Read True, chapters 1 and 2; keep notes about any questions you have.