Fundamentals of Scientific Research Dr. Samir Tartir 2014/2015 First Semester

Class Lecture Times: –Mon 16:00-19:00 Location: Abo Al-Hajj Slides are on ecourse: –

Lecturer Instructor: Dr. Samir Tartir Office: IT 303 Office Hours: STT Website – Facebook: –

Course Overview Textbook: –Title: “Research Methods: A process of Inquiry” –Authors: Anthony M. Graziano and M. L, Raulin –Publisher: Pearson 2007

Description The course provides a foundation to: –tackle research problems –evaluate critically both their own and others' research –communicate their findings effectively. It covers material and advice on technical writing for the thesis and defending it. Research seminars undertaken as part of the Research Project contribute to this course. The course will mix lectures with assignments and discussions.

Objectives This course aims to offer a grounding in various aspects of research Students will acquire insight into the philosophical and methodological fundamentals of scientific research. Students will develop the ability to understand and reflect on the demands of scientific research, how knowledge is defined and how it is verified. This knowledge will also form a basis for launching and pursuing individual student research efforts, and will also facilitate critical reflection on the research of others.

Course Contents The Research Process Questions & Ethics Finding Articles Reading & Evaluating Papers Preparing & Making a Research Presentation Measurements and Variables Statistical Analysis of Data Field Research Correlational and Differential Research MSc Research Guidelines Hypothesis Testing Validity Control Writing a Paper Research Expirement Design: Introduction Project 2 Presentations Research Expirement Design Field Research, part II

Contents The Research Process Questions & Ethics Finding Articles Reading & Evaluating Papers Preparing & Making a Research Presentation Measurements and Variables Statistical Analysis of Data Field Research Correlational and Differential Research MSc Research Guidelines Hypothesis Testing Validity Control Writing a Paper Research Experiment Design

Grading Mid-term exam: 30% Projects & Presentations: 30% Final exam: 40%

Projects & Presentations Each student is to select a topic Make 3-4 presentations

Late and Cheating Policies All assignments are due by 11:59 PM 10% penalty for each late day Zero points if late by more than 5 days Proper documentation needed for health- related excuses Cheating cases handed over to academic honesty department –Minimum penalty – F grade with note in transcript

Use of Electronic Devices Laptops/Tablets –Only for note taking or training on class material, can be asked to turn in notes. Phones –Must always be silent or turned off while in class –First time a warning, second you’ll be asked to leave class. –Only in emergencies Others –Should be turned off