Methods of Inquiry in CJ

This course examines how to conduct criminal justice research and how leaders can be better consumers of criminal justice research and other types of information relative to the needs of their agencies. The relationship between theory, research, and practice is examined, leading students to develop an understanding of the differences between quantitative and qualitative research while exploring various methodological designs. Problems and errors associated with sampling, analysis of data, interpretation of results, and research limitations are presented. Important issues in criminal justice research are discussed including ethics, confidentiality, and vulnerable populations.