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HMS 103: Journal Article Analysis & Critique

Introduces philosophies, theories for intervention, and the problem-solving process.

Basics of HMS 103


Theories and Techniques in Human Services

This course introduces philosophies, theories for intervention, and the problem-solving process. It emphasizes the development of a skill base used in counseling techniques and client intervention. It also enhances interpersonal relationship skills through knowledge of communication techniques and provides activities in which the student will apply this knowledge and these skills.

JAC Assignment Guidelines

 

​​​​​​​​​​​Introduction of Article (25 Points) - You do NOT need an 'abstract' section for this assignment.

  • What is the purpose of this study?
  • What is the research question? What question or issue does the author hope to answer?
  • What hypothesis does the author propose in this study? What do they believe the outcome of the study will be?

Research Design/Method (25 points)

  • Describe the method of data collection. (Did the authors use surveys, interviews, case studies, pre and post-tests/interventions, etc.?)
  • What theory or epistemology was used to guide this research study? (Make sure this is a theory we have discussed in class).
    • If you find a great article that does present a theory that we discussed in class, write which one you would use to guide the study and why.
  • Include a brief description of the participants (also called the sample).  Make sure to identify the number of participants as well as any special characteristics such as gender, race, age, socioeconomic status, diagnosis, etc.
  • Describe how the participants (sample) were selected.

Results (25 points)-*Note, you do not need to analyze the statistics in detail.

  • Summarize the major results or findings of the study.
  • Were you surprised with the results of this study? Why or why not?
  • What are the study’s limitations (What additional research should be explored?)
  • What, if any, suggested areas of new research were identified in your article?

Your Critique & Conclusion (25 points)

  • If you wrote this article, would you approach it the same way? Why or why not?
  • How will the research findings impact human services/social work practice or social welfare policy?
  • How would you incorporate these findings into your own human services/social work practice now or in the future?

Requirements (50 points)

  • Assignment is typed in Times New Roman or easy to read 12-point font and double-spaced.
  • The paper should be 3-5 pages in length and include a title page and a reference page. Note: the title page and reference page do not count toward this page limit.
  • Paper is written in a professional, third person voice.
    •  The last section can be written in first person voice as it is your critique.
  • Proofread for spelling and grammar errors.