Required Readings: Yegidis B L, Weinbach R W, Myers L L 2018

Required Readingsyegidis B L Weinbach R W Myers L L 2018

Locate an empirical research article that is either a quantitative or qualitative study from a peer-reviewed social work journal. The article should follow a typical research format including Introduction/Background, Literature Review, Methodology, Findings, and Discussion. The study should involve numerical summaries such as descriptive statistics, correlations, or inferential statistics if it is quantitative, or thematic analysis based on interviews, observations, or written responses if it is qualitative. Do not select a mixed methods study. Download and attach the PDF copy of the article for review and approval by the instructor, who will confirm its suitability for the final assignment due in Week 10.

Paper For Above instruction

The process of locating an empirical research article in social work that aligns with the specified criteria involves a systematic and strategic approach. As students prepare for their final assignment, understanding how to identify suitable articles is essential. This paper discusses the key steps and considerations for selecting a peer-reviewed empirical research article, and it highlights the importance of the research design, methodology, and statistical or thematic analysis within the article. By focusing on articles that employ either quantitative or qualitative methods, students can ensure they meet assignment requirements and develop a comprehensive understanding of research practices in social work.

Empirical research articles are foundational to evidence-based practice in social work, providing systematically collected data to answer specific research questions. When selecting an article, the first step is to access scholarly databases such as PsycINFO, SocINDEX, or the Walden University Library, which host peer-reviewed journals relevant to social work and social sciences. The search can be refined by using keywords like “quantitative,” “qualitative,” “empirical study,” and “social work” combined with subject-related terms such as “child welfare,” “clinical practice,” or “adolescent behavior,” based on personal or course-related interests.

Once potential articles are identified, it is crucial to review their abstracts to determine whether they describe empirical studies involving numerical data analysis or thematic qualitative analysis. The chosen article must include a clear methodology section detailing data collection methods—such as surveys, experiments, interviews, or focus groups—and the analysis process, whether statistical tests or thematic coding. The article should also provide results that include statistical measures (means, standard deviations, tests of significance) for quantitative research, or rich descriptions of themes and patterns for qualitative research.

Key considerations also include the credibility and relevance of the source. Peer-reviewed journals ensure scholarly rigor and validity, while recent publication dates (preferably within the last five years) help ensure the research reflects current practices and knowledge. Confirming that the article's research question aligns with social work practice or policy enhances its applicability. Moreover, since the assignment prohibits mixed methods studies, it is essential to verify that the article employs solely quantitative or qualitative methods, avoiding articles that combine data collection and analysis types.

Downloading and attaching the article in PDF format facilitates its review and approval process. Instructors typically scrutinize the article to ensure it follows an empirical format and that the research type aligns with assignment criteria. Therefore, students should carefully read and evaluate the methodology section, focusing on how data was collected, analyzed, and interpreted. Selecting a well-structured article with clear presentation of findings and robust analysis supports effective understanding and discussion in the final paper.

In summary, systematically searching academic databases, utilizing precise keywords, and critically evaluating articles based on their research design and methodology are fundamental steps in locating suitable empirical research articles for social work. This approach ensures that students engage with high-quality, evidence-based studies that enhance their understanding of research processes and support their academic and professional development in the social sciences.

References

• Babbie, E. (2017). The Practice of Social Research. Cengage Learning.
• Creswell, J. W. (2014). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches. Sage Publications.
• Yegidis, B. L., Weinbach, R. W., & Myers, L. L. (2018). Research Methods for Social Workers (8th ed.). Pearson.
• Leedy, P. D., & Ormrod, J. E. (2014). Practical Research: Planning and Design. Pearson.
• Robson, C., & McCartan, K. (2016). Real World Research. Wiley.
• Schutt, R. K. (2016). Investigating the Social world: The Process and Practice of Research. Sage Publications.
• Patton, M. Q. (2015). Qualitative Research & Evaluation Methods. Sage Publications.
• Neuman, W. L. (2014). Social Research Methods: Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches. Pearson.
• Frankfort-Nachmias, C., & Nachmias, D. (2008). Research Methods in the Social Sciences. Worth Publishers.
• Walden University Library. (2019). Guide to Finding Empirical Articles. Retrieved from [library link].