Resources & Social Science Conceptual Frameworks, Research Questions Kathleen L. Wolf, Ph.D. ESRM 304 November 17, 2008 ESRM 304 November 17, 2008

ESRM 304 Lab Social Science St. Edward State Park - recreation evaluation There are many social questions about parks, rec, and open space! parks and people issue/dynamic what would be a research question? (1-2 sentences idea(s) for data collection about people 30 minute essay – due Monday

human dimensions of natural resource mgmt

Readings Research Methods: Bryman, & Cramer Quantitative Data Analysis: A Guide for Social Scientists. Galvan, J. L Writing Literature Reviews: A Guide for Students of the Social and Behavioral Sciences, 2 nd Edition. Chapter 5: Analyzing Literature from the Viewpoint of a Researcher. Shoemaker, et al Social Science Methodologies for Studying Individuals’ Responses in Human Issues in Horticulture Research. HortTechnology.

Reserve Books Research Methods: Creswell Research Design: Qualitative & Quantitative Approaches. Robson Real World Research: A Resource for Social Scientists and Practitioner-Researchers. Zeisel Inquiry by Design: Tools for Environment-Behavior Research.

“preferring simplicity is not denial of complexity, but, clarification of the significant” an architect somewhere

decide on a focus develop research questions choose a research strategy arrange practicalities collect the data carry out analysis report what you’ve found select methods Process of Scientific Investigation

Conceptual Framework Primary Research Questions Framework may include hypotheses Framework is project skeleton develop subquestions operationalize questions field methods data collection Examples

Framework Basics! Who? Where? Why? users general populace stakeholders managers decision-makers on-site near, off-site community region state plan manage evaluate forecast fund theory

Study 1: Urban Forestry & Shopping Environments

Main Streets & Central Business Districts

Urban Forestry & Shopping Environments Visual quality - visual preference? Maintenance and upkeep Product quality Merchant interaction Shopper perceptions? Ratings of varied images of streetscape conditions Shopper patronage? Travel time & distance Length of stay Willingness-to-pay for products

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Study 2: Urban Youth, Urban Forest Restoration, & Personal Development

Urban Youth, Urban Forestry Restoration, & Personal Development Psychological development Improved family dynamics Community leadership Social development Self-concept and identity Confidence and self-efficacy Career development Ecological literacy Natural resource career knowledge & interest

Study 3: Private Landowners, Nonpoint Source Pollution, & Land Management

Stormwater quality Stormwater quantity Salmon habitat Nonpoint sources Cumulative effects

Private Landowners, Nonpoint Source Pollution & Land Management Learning effectiveness? Environmental ethic Economic gain External influences Motivations to adopt behavior? Judgments of internet, site visits, print materials, classes, etc. Satisfactions after doing recommended BMPs? Landscape stewardship Intrinsic pleasure or value Health of personal land and animals

Sources for Conceptual Framework? Theory Prior Studies Case Studies Pilot Study Personal Experiences Field Managers & Experts

ESRM 304 Lab Social Science St. Edward State Park - recreation evaluation There are many social questions about parks, rec, and open space! parks and people issue/dynamic what would be a research question? (1-2 sentences idea(s) for data collection about people 30 minute essay – due Monday