B.Ed. (Learning Disability) (LD) Basic Research and Statistics Syllabus - Mumbai University

Objectives

After completion of this course the student will be able to

• Describe the concept and relevance of research in education and special education
• Develop an understanding of the research process and acquire competencies for conducting a research
• Explain the various types of tools used in conducting research
• Describe the methods of measurement and organization of data
• Apply suitable measures for data analysis PLEASE NOTE: Students are expected to work on a project of the 4 tasks given in the module content. Journal Submission and presentation with reflections are part of this project. Each student submits the journal and makes a presentation on reflections and learning. This presentation is to be attended by all supervisors and students – preferably also of first year and students from other disability

Module 1: Introduction to Research (Basic theory with lot of examples)

• 1.1 Scientific method
• 1.2 Research: concept and definition
• 1.3 Application of scientific method in research
• 1.4 Purpose of research
• 1.5 Research in education and special education

Module 2: Types and Process of Research

• 2.1 Types, methods and process of research (To be taught by the faculty)
• 2.2 Student to select a topic for research. The topic needs to be relevant in special education and could be from the following areas.
• • inclusive education of children with disability
• • rehabilitation and other services
• • parental involvement and training
• • early intervention services / special schools
• • needs and issues of children and families with disability
• • attitudes and perceptions about disability
• TASK 1 Each student will submit a brief research proposal on selected topic. (Colleges make the template available for the students)

Module 3: Tools of Research

• 3.1 Introduction to types of research tools (To be taught by the faculty)
• TASK 2 Student to develop a tool relevant for the selected topic of research (under supervision of faculty member)

Module 4: Measurement Scale and Organization of Data

• 4.1 Introduction to various scales and methods for organization of data ((To be taught by the faculty)
• TASK 3 Student will select and review any 2 published articles / unpublished dissertations in terms of data organization. Brief reflections to be submitted.

Module 5: Descriptive Statistic

• 5.1 Introduction to measures of central tendency
• TASK 4 Student will apply the measures to the organized data (3-4 Data samples to be provided by the college)

TRANSACTIONS AND EVALUATIONS

• AND EVALUATIONS: Curricular transactions for this course must involve more pragmatic approach than mere theoretical discussions. Best outcomes in terms of understanding, skills and pro-active attitude towards role of research can be obtained if this course is well linked with experiences. Focus has to be placed on understanding research carried out by others and their outcomes. Also minimum jargon to be used with more applicability to be emphasized. Evaluations too will involve application rather than theory.

Essential reading

• Best, J. W. and Kahn, J. V. (1996) Research in Education Prentice-Hall of India New Delhi
• Dooley, D. (1997) Social Research Methods. New Delhi: Prentice-Hall of India.
• Grewal, P. S. (1990) Methods of Statistical Analysis. New Delhi: Sterling Publishers
• Guptha, S. (2003) Research Methodology and Statistical Techniques. New Delhi: Deep & Deep Publishing.
• Kauffman James M. & Hallahan Daniel P. (Ed) (2011) Handbook of Special Education. Routledge NY
• Koul, Lokesh. (1996). Methodology of Educational Research. New Delhi: Vikas Publishing House
• Potti, L. R. (2004) Research Methodology. Thiruvananathapuram: Yamuna Publications

Suggested Reading

• Cohen, J. (1988) Statistical Power Analysis for the Behavioral Sciences. New York: Academic Press
• Greene, Sheila & Hogan, Diane. (2005). Researching children's experience. Sage Publication: London