SPST500 - Research Methods in Space Studies

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• Analyze sources of data/information related to a given research topic
• Evaluate both quantitative and qualitative research methods
• Apply select statistical analysis procedures for quantitative data
• Present findings in a coherent manner using both written text and graphics

Chapter Exercises:

The end of chapter exercises are found in the book. They test your knowledge of the chapter’s material and will be due each week.

Annotated Bibliography Assignment:

The student will be required to review a total of 10 space studies-related journal articles and write an Annotated Bibliography for each. The student is responsible for finding and choosing the articles for review. Be sure to post the annotated bibliographies within the Assignments area of the classroom.

Please see the following link for an excellent and concise introduction to the concept of writing annotated bibliographies: http://www.library.cornell.edu/olinuris/ref/research/skill28.htm#what.

Forum Assignments:

There are a total of eight graded forum postings for this course. You will be graded on your active participation within each posting, and the quality of response for each. Make sure you respond to at least two other student posts!

Final Project:

The Research Project will measure your ability to use the skills learned throughout the course. Specifics of the ten-page research project will be posted no later than Week 6.