This course is designed to enable students to identify, describe and execute the key steps in preparing a research proposal.  The core concepts include how to translate concepts and theories about human interaction and institutions into scientifically testable propositions, choose the appropriate research method, design the research, propose and establish data collection methods and suggest qualitative and quantitative data interpretation techniques. This course also offers the opportunity for the student to enhance his/her critical thinking about social issues, to evaluate research conducted by others, and to properly communicate this knowledge and information to others.