This discussion includes several steps. Please complete the following steps and write an initial post answering the questions:
Part One:
1. Watch this Bugs Bunny cartoon called “Rabbit Season.” As you watch this nearly 2 and half minute video, count the number of violent acts that you witness in the video.
**https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qPtSxZchA34** (the video)
2. Make an initial post telling the class about how many acts of violence you counted during the video. After stating your witnessed number, explain what you considered a violent act in the video.
3. Keeping in mind your answers above, provide a definition for violence that should be used when watching the video.
4. The likelihood is that we will have many different numbers for the acts of violence that each of us witnessed during the video. Considering that the likelihood is that we will see different counts in the class, this means that we may have different ideas and definitions for what we consider violent acts. This also means that if we are using different definitions for key elements of a given research question, we would not have high inter-rater reliability. So, what does that inform us about the types of research we have been learning about throughout this class
Part Two:
1. Using one of the research questions that you created in the Week 2 Discussion or a new research question that you create for the purpose of this week’s discussion, how would you define the various variables that would be used in your research question? How would this definition help researchers maintain high inter-rater reliability when conducting research?
Category: Social Sciences
Begin this assignment with a brief paragraph introducing your topic. This paragraph should include your tentative research question and hypothesis.
Description of the literature review in the proposal assignment:
This section is a presentation of the background of the problem and includes a theoretical as well as an empirical methodological review (this means your literature review should describe what theories are referenced in the articles you found, and also the details of how each study was conducted). You must briefly review a minimum of 3 RESEARCH-focused peer-reviewed articles that relate to your topic.
This review should be focused on the question you are researching, and the variables to be tested in your study, if possible. Give emphasis to studies that: a) justify your statement of the problem and research hypotheses, and b) support your selection of important research variables. Try to search for articles that test for relationships between the variables you want to test. If you can’t find any study that tests exactly the relationship you are interested in, that’s OK! Write about the sources that relate to some parts of your topic, and explain how your proposed topic is distinct from any of the research you found.
The review should be written like a cohesive essay with an opening paragraph that summarizes the collective significance of all of the studies included. Then, discuss what has been studied and found in terms of each of the variables you think are related to your study, citing previous research throughout and including appropriate in-text parenthetical citations. Use subheadings where necessary. Then summarize once more the collective importance of these studies and suggest what “new ground” your own study would examine. The research that you are proposing does not have to be cutting edge, but you do have to make a case for why the research you propose is a contribution to the literature. Remember, you will not actually complete the research, but the proposal should be plausible as a plan for a capstone project or an independent study.
At the end include a section titled either Bibliography or Works Cited with citations in ASA format of all of the research you cite. This section should contain only bibliographic entries, no annotation.
M1: Discussion: Personal Awareness
22 unread replies.22 replies.
Instructions
After you have completed your assigned readings, respond to all of the discussion board questions. Take into consideration the requirements as you create your response.
Discussion Prompt
Sitting with people in their pain is difficult at best, but what about when their grief is similar to grief that we have experienced? How do we set aside and protect those tender parts of ourselves so that we can provide the support and comfort that the bereaved need?
Take some time to reflect on your experiences, and then write about who you need to be in order to comfort those coping with loss.
What challenges with grief and loss have you encountered in your life?
How have you managed these challenges?
What comforted you as you overcame your grief?
Have you been able to use your past experiences in working with the bereaved? If not, how might you use your experiences to help comfort the bereaved in the future?
As you answer this discussion, consider your results from the questionnaires you have completed. You are welcome to interweave those responses and results within this discussion post.
Respond to each discussion question/topic with a meaningful and thoughtful response.
Your initial post should have 250-500 words, and it is due by the posted due date.
Remember, you may assume a conversational style on the discussion boards. You can use first-person references, such as “I” and “my.” For example, your discussion responses can say, “What I found was…” and “In my experience, I learned that…” or “What I was left wondering was…”
For your initial post, be sure to support your dialogue by including a citation from a scholarly source.
Be sure to include a personal and/or professional experience in each discussion post.
reading
Stillion, J. M. & Attig, T. (Eds.). (2014). Death, dying, and bereavement: Contemporary perspectives, institutions, and practices. New York, NY: Springer.
Chapter 1
Chapter 27
Our chapter provides a plethora of information about gender in our society. We know that messages about gender and how to do or be your gendered self begin early in life. Various techniques are used – as a part of our socialization process – to ‘encourage’ us to conform to the gendered norms of society and to shame us when we do not. The article in your content folder on shaming describes one way the gendered norms of society are enforced. The videos below demonstrate how gendered norms are influenced and how these norms are messaged to us – through our social scripts – and sometimes without our understanding that these are messages about gender role conformance. One of the comments that is used at times to both put down the athletic ability of women and to label men who seem to fail to meet some standard of manhood is you “run or play or fill-in-blank like a girl” That makes it sort of a 2 for 1! Interestingly, both men and women learn from the message sets that go to both men and women. Often, when we teach about gender, we focus more on how women get the short power straw in society, but there is a whole set of messages that go to men about what to do and what not to do. Watch these videos.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9yMFw_vWboE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jk8YmtEJvDc
Then, address the following questions in your post.
1. What are the primary messages that go to girls & women?
2. What are the primary messages that go to boys & men?
3. How do these messages inform young girls and boys and expectations?
4. Who enforces these norms – since each generation seems to continue the same ones?
5. Discuss how the self-image and feelings of fitting in and meeting expectations of women & girls and men & boys can be affected by these messages.
Make a 200 word post (numbering the questions as you answer)
members of the transgender community are more visible now than at any time in the past. Understanding of people whose presentation to society may not match their outward appearance is growing – but very slowly. The following video features a Mom who talks about her son’s transition process. Please watch it and then respond to the questions below in an original post of 200 words and then add a peer response of at least 50 words for full credit. If you have trouble with the video, you can read the article following this discussion.
Transgender kids are just kids after all | Amber Briggle | TEDxTWU (Links to an external site.)
Transgender kids are just kids after all | Amber Briggle | TEDxTWU
(1) When we look at the LGBTQ community as a whole, we see that some groups within the community are more readily accepted than others. Why – what makes the difference?
(2) Some people are very critical of parents who support children’s decisions to present themselves as a different gender than they may have initially been reared. What do you understand to be the basis of this criticism?
(3) If you had a close friend or relative whose child defined himself or herself differently than he or she was being reared and that friend or relative came to you for support, what could you offer?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t_gCASi58Ps
PART1:
Initial question and answer:
What are the characteristics of quantitative analysis that lend itself to the perception that it is “more scientific” than qualitative research? To what extent do you agree with this perception? Why?
The deductive nature of quantitative analysis allows us to test theories and present data in numerical form. This takes away some of the biases that may exist in self-reported data and experiences shared by participants in qualitative research as well as some of the possibilities of researcher biases tainting the results of studies and thus gives this form of research the illusion of being more scientific. In other words, the quantitative methods look for confirmation of causal factors and the extent of the correlated effects, given all the internal and external criteria of validity and reliability are met, and the presentation of numbers allows others to quickly reference the data without any if, and, or buts. Regardless, this information is still not expected to be perfect but can be close to perfect by running tests to confirm an acceptable accuracy. I would say that neither quantitative nor qualitative are more scientific, as both have scientific approaches to improve the analysis of the data. Quantitative research’s use of statistics and numbers in presenting results does not equate to more scientific in my mind. When I think of a scientific approach, I think of strict outlines used in the process of collecting and analyzing data. Qualitative research still abides by the rules of informed consent, bracketing our biases to analyze data, and reporting the information in a non-biased manner. There are checkmarks to be made by each individual step of the process.
2) Many journals prefer publications that are mixed methods, rather than purely qualitative, calling on the researcher to verify any claims made through the collection and analysis of qualitative data with the numbers. There are many popular theories out there that, through quantitative scrutiny are demonstrably false, but they remain very popular political talking points. Are there any such talking points that you would want to “run the numbers” on to determine the extent to which they are actually true?
I would like to run the numbers on data that is shared by pro-life supporters. I would like to know how many people believe that people do not become pregnant from rape or that adoption is an answer to an unwanted pregnancy. I am constantly seeing information being spread around that your body rejects pregnancy based on the action of rape, or that people need to give children up for adoption rather than have abortions. What I do not understand is where they get their information and why they insist on repeating information based on hearsay. I found some contradictive articles about percentages of pregnancy occurring from rape. However, there are articles that show that some rapists intend for their victims to become pregnant (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 2020). So, despite the statement that little to no people become pregnant from rape, I need to see proof. The suggestion of adoption does not seem viable either. With over 437,000 children in foster care as of 2018 (Child Welfare Information Gateway 2020), why are people suggesting that adoption is an alternative to abortion? This, of course, is a popular subject among politicians and their voting bases. I am not making a pro-abortion stance here. I think of my stance as being proactive, not reactive; education paired with available contraception would go a long way in preventing unwanted pregnancies.
References:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2020. Violence Prevention: Understanding Pregnancy Resulting from Rape in the United States. Center for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/sexualviolence/understanding-RRP-inUS.html (Links to an external site.)
Child Welfare Information Gateway. 2020. Foster care statistics 2018. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Childrens Bureau. https://www.childwelfare.gov/pubPDFs/foster.pdf (Links to an external site.)
Colleague 1 answer:
I think that would be an excellent quantitative study to conduct. I feel like certain topics like abortion, drug use, domestic violence, etc. are so wrapped up in the religious and moral dogma of our society that people have a hard time processing facts that contradict their views. I only need to refer to “fake news” and “alternative facts” here, I think. Any quantitative data on these topics that gets released has to combat a sort of “qualitative group analysis” that exists as a structure of beliefs in the minds of many Americans. In other words, certain groups of people believe that simply because they believe something, it makes that thing as scientifically accurate or provable as actual quantitative research. Group-think at its worst. Thanks for the thought-provoking suggestion.
Colleague 2 answer:
I fully agree that quantitative analysis is more scientific than qualitative research because of its deductive nature. Researchers can test theories and develop numerical presentations of data through quantitative analysis. However, in qualitative research, a lot of biases through participants experiences and self-reported information Through statistics and numbers, quantitative research cannot be strictly classified as a scientific approach because the data collection and analysis processes follow strict outlines in scientific methods. Most journals prefer qualitative and quantitative research in evaluating and presenting diverse information that people can relate to easily at different levels.
Colleague 3 answer:
Thanks for responding. While quantitative may be considered more scientific, if you go by Merriam-Webster’s definition of science, the word describes using systematic methods. So, although not always testable, if we use qualitative over quantitative, but still use caution in our procedures to ensure a reduction of biases, would it not be as “scientific?” I understand the association of numbers, rather than experiences and feelings, appearing to be more scientific, but is it? Sometimes it is the qualitative method results that do lead to quantitative research, so I think whenever possible integration of both methodologies does give us a fuller picture. However, quantitative can not always define the meanings behind certain words, non-verbal communications,
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PART2:
Initial question and answer:
The quantitative analysis differs from qualitative analysis substantially. It is deductive, as opposed to inductive in nature, and is generally used to verify and test the theories generated from the observations in qualitative research. It seeks to find antithetical information to the driving thesis formed by the qualitative observations to synthesize a more accurate explanation of the nature of social phenomena. Quantitative research is closely associated with positivism and is generally seen as being more scientific than qualitative research because of the general objectivity of its data measurement and analysis.
The main goal of quantitative research is to generate numerical data. The researcher can then use those numbers to determine the characteristics of groups that engage in certain behaviors or have certain opinions, the average or normal characteristics of these groups, and determine what behaviors, opinions, and characteristics are associated with other behaviors, opinions, and characteristics. It is less about the micro approach to understanding a social phenomenon than it is about the macro, aggregate approach.
1). What are the characteristics of quantitative analysis that lend themselves to the perception that it is “more scientific” than qualitative research? To what extent do you agree with this perception? Why?
2). Many journals prefer publications that are mixed methods, rather than purely qualitative, calling on the researcher to verify any claims made through the collection and analysis of qualitative data with the numbers. There are many popular theories out there that, through quantitative scrutiny are demonstrably false, but they remain very popular political talking points. Are there any such talking points that you would want to “run the numbers” on to determine the extent to which they are actually true?
Answer(s):
Quantitative analysis is a method that determines behavior through applying statistical and mathematical models, research, and measurements. It uses numerical values to represent realities. Quantitative analysis can either be descriptive, casual-comparative, experimental, or correlational. Qualitative analysis is applied in determining non-numerical data about chemical components or reactions. The deductive nature of the quantitative analysis is its key differentiating factor with qualitative analysis substantially. Quantitative analysis is also applied in verifying and evaluating theories that researchers generate through their qualitative research observations (Chen, 2012). Qualitative observations do not provide antithetical information that can be used to synthesize accurate explanations surrounding social spectacles and nature. Quantitative analysis is more scientific because of its close association with positivism. Furthermore, the primary objective of quantitative analysis is to measure and analyze data.
Quantitative analysts gather information by utilizing structured instruments because their results are based on larger samples representing populations. Quantitative research can also be carried out repeatedly so long as it provides reliable information. A quantitative analyst’s key objective is to clearly define the research question so that goals can be easily set. It is more scientific than qualitative analysis because it designs all aspects of its studies before collecting information. Mixed research methods are preferred in journal publications than pure qualitative or quantitative analysis. They clarify the researchers’ verification of claims regarding their collection and analysis of qualitative data using available numbers (Mc Kim, 2016). Numbers are essential components of research because they represent the characteristics of larger groups that cannot be analyzed simultaneously. The macro aggregate research approach is crucial in effectively understanding social phenomena than the micro process because the evidence is vital in convincing researchers about the relevance of their research.
Reference(s):
Chen, H. X. (2012). Approaches to quantitative research: A guide for dissertation students. Oak Tree Press (Ireland).
McKim, C. A. (2016). The value of mixed methods research. Journal of Mixed Methods Research, 11(2), 202-222. doi:10.1177/1558689815607096
Colleague 1 answer:
I replied to your reply to my post as well. After reading your initial post, you are correct about the nature of quantitative research. It can measure many more factors than qualitative, and the tests can confirm the findings. While I think a mixture of both is a perfect combination, I think there are many social phenomena that can have emotional effects that are not numerically measurable. For example, gender studies have observed the different treatment of girls and boys in grade school, but there is not an equation per se. There is nothing to tell us how many times it takes someone to expect a girl to be quieter than a boy equals a girl not speaking up for herself. Thankfully, through observations, we can learn what gendered expectations are and how they are taught, and with a scientific approach of systematically observing and recording data, it does feel legit even without an equation to test and retest the results. Although, one can retest these results through additional observations.
Hopefully, I am explaining my thoughts well here. Either way, you did provoke my thoughts.
Social policies can have a significant impact on individuals and families, as well as the organizations and agencies that implement the policies. In some cases, the policy, as written, appears comprehensive and effective. Yet, despite appearances, the policy might fail to be effective as a result of improper implementation, interpretation, and/or application of the policy. As a social worker, how might you reduce the potential negative impact faulty social policies might have on organizations and agencies, as well as the populations you serve?
For this Discussion, review the attached cases Working with Immigrants and Refugees: The Case of Luisa and Social Work Policy: Benefit Administration and Provision. Then, select either of the cases and consider how the social welfare policies presented in the case influenced the problems facing Luisa or Tessa. Finally, think about how policies affect social agencies and how social workers work with clients such as Tessa or Luisa.
Type up an explanation of the effects of the social welfare policies presented in the case study you selected on Luisa or Tessa. Be specific and reference the case study you selected in your post. Finally, explain how policies affect social agencies and how social workers work with clients, such as Tessa or Luisa.
You might think that social problems only affect those who suffer from the problem directly, but they actually have much broader impact. For example, the public education system shapes the educational experiences of those who are not a part of the private school system. The government provides policies and procedures necessary to develop the public education system and make recommendations on ways to engage youth. If the system does not adhere to these policies or engage the youth effectively, we may be faced with a population of adults that have not received an adequate education. Social problems, if unchecked, may affect a large number of people in the society. As a social worker, you should be keen in discerning social problems and addressing them.
For this Assignment, you will identify a problem that affects populations that social workers serve. Some examples of social problems include poverty, child welfare/abuse, and homelessness
Assignment –
(2 – 4 full pages in APA format): In addition to a minimum of six scholarly references, which may include electronic government documents and reputable websites, your paper should include:
A description of the social problem you selected and any known causes or explanations for the problem
A description of the problems prevalence in society
A description of the specific population impacted by this social problem, if any. If the social problem you selected does affect a specific population, include an explanation of why that might be the case.
An explanation of the theories that support the problem and approaches scholars and policy analysts use to address the problem
How did this week’s learning content (assigned readings, etc.) challenge or affirm your thinking? What did you agree or disagree with and explain why? Did you learn anything new? Is there anything you are curious about? Provide evidence to support your points. We all read the assigned readings, so do not repeat them for us. Give us a fresh take by including your critical analysis and perspective. Your response must be detailed and show deep, reflective, and critical thinking. Surface comments and descriptions will not suffice. I encourage you to use current events, lived experiences, and artifacts (videos, images, etc.) to support your response. Use APA in-text citations to show where your information is coming from. It must be clear that you read/watched and understood the material and can use it to support your perspectives. Do not just pick one thing to read or watch. Read the textbook and the articles, and your post must demonstrate that you have read and understand all the material.
2. Required: Using the relational leadership model element purposeful, why would a leader need to pay attention to the ideas brought up in this week’s assigned readings? In other words, how would this week’s learning material influence a leader who seeks to be purposeful? You will need to reference/use the appropriate part of the relational leadership model (found in the Week 2 module or here) and use it to frame your response.
3. Required: Write at least one (no more than two) discussion question that will engage classmates. The question (s) you ask should not yield “yes or no” responses, or pedestrian/simple answers. Design questions to provoke deep and diverse responses.
Prompt: Reflect on the concepts discussed in this module and then answer the following questions in a journal reflection (2 paragraphs per question):
1. What sort of cultural or social forces impact how we think and behave?
2. Describe an example of a behavior that is impacted by socialization and cultural influences.
3. How do things such as media and advertising impact our understanding of how we should act or behave in a culture or group?
Rubric
Guidelines for Submission: Submit your journal reflection in a Microsoft Word document.
Critical Elements Proficient (100%) Needs Improvement (75%) Not Evident (0%) Value
Topical Response Describes cultural/social forces
and the impact of
media/advertising on how we
think and behave
Description of cultural/social
forces and the impact of
media/advertising lacks detail
about impact on thoughts and
behavior
Does not provide a description
of cultural/social forces and the
impact of media/advertising on
how we think and behave
30
Engagement of
Response
Describes an example of a
behavior that is impacted by
socialization and cultural
influences
Example behavior is not
impacted by socialization and
cultural influences or lacks detail
Does not provide an example
behavior
30
Focus of Response Provides focused and direct
reflection when describing all
areas posed in the question
Provides reflection, but the
focus is unclear or unrelated to
the questions posed
Does not provide reflection or
describe the areas posed in the
question
30
Communicates
Clearly
Clearly communicates key ideas
and thoughts in a short-answer
response
Response needs clarification in
order to support understanding
of key ideas and thoughts
Response is not legible and key
ideas or thoughts are not
understandable
10
Total 100%
