Experience AIIAS,
Change Your World
This course is designed for an exploration of the fundamental processes of research. The course introduces students to the terminology, methods, and tools of scholarly research. Specific topics include characteristics of historical, descriptive, quasi-experimental, experimental research, and qualitative research; measurement considerations as related to validity, reliability, generalizability, instrumentation, and data analysis; and ethical concerns. The course also addresses the practical aspects of writing a thesis/project proposal, gathering data, organizing the report, and presenting the findings.
This course utilizes experiential learning where you apply the research skills you learn from lecture notes, independent readings, and discussion forums in writing a research proposal, which is the major requirement of the course. To succeed in this course, it is essential that you plan your schedule to be able to devote 15 to 18 hours per week to reading and thinking, participation in discussion forums, preparation of reading reports and reflective journals, taking self-check quizzes, and development of a research proposal draft. You are responsible for keeping up with the requirements of this course. I have high expectations for your commitment of time and quality of work.
Upon completion of this course, the students will be able to:
Week 1 – The Nature and Process of Research
Week 2 – Research Proposals and Completed Reports
Week 3 – Review of Literature
Week 4 – Research Designs: Quantitative
Week 5 – Research Designs: Qualitative
Week 6 – Data Collection
Week 7 – Data Analysis
Week 8 – Interpretation of Results
SAMUEL GAIKWAD, PhD
DR. SAMUEL GAIKWAD is a seasoned professor in the Education Department of the Graduate School at the Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies (AIIAS). Originally from India, he has served in various capacities—as a teacher, consultant, and administrator—across multiple educational institutions. With a specialization in Curriculum and Instruction as well as Educational Administration, Dr. Gaikwad brings a wealth of experience to his role. He has been teaching research and statistics courses at AIIAS for several years, where he is known for his clarity, rigor, and dedication to academic excellence.
PREMA GAIKWAD, PhD
Dr. Prema Gaikwad is a professor in the Education Department of the Graduate School at AIIAS. Originally from India, she brings over 45 years of teaching experience, including her early years at Spicer College. A specialist in qualitative research, she has taught numerous research courses and authored Bible textbooks widely used in the SUD and SSD. Dr. Gaikwad has presented internationally, published several articles, and developed online courses, passionately engaging students both online and in person.
