PLCY 698: Senior Capstone in Public Policy: Research & Poster Design

Research Design

SAGE Research Methods
Library of research methods tools. Learn about quantitative and qualitative methods in the Little Green Book and Little Blue Book series, practice data analysis, and use the Project Planner tool to organize research projects. Also included are social research case studies, videos, datasets for teaching and instruction, and analytical tools.
Access: Off Campus Access is available for: UNC-Chapel Hill students, faculty, and staff; UNC Hospitals employees; UNC-Chapel Hill affiliated AHEC users.

What makes a good research question?
Handout from Duke University's (yes, Duke) Thompson Writing Program Writing Studio. Has good guidelines for and examples of research questions in the social sciences, but much applies to the humanities as well.

Library Data Services

Library Data Services cater to researchers interested in working with data, mapping, texts, visualization, and technology. Many of these services are available online. Davis Library Data Services, located on the second floor of Davis Library, offers:

A computing lab with specialized software for GIS and data visualization & analysis.
Walk-in assistance provided by knowledgeable student consultants during set hours.
Consultations with specialists for more in-depth inquiries (by appointment).
Spaces for collaboration and presentation, complete with white boards and external displays.
Technology short courses and programs that promote digital scholarship. .

The Odum Institute

The Odum Institute is located on the second floor of Davis Library. They provide quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods services, training, and consulting. They are a great resource if you are designing a survey, conducting interviews or if you are interested in taking a short course on social science research.

Data Visualization & Poster Design

Learn Data Viz
Design Lab tutorials
from the Design Lab at the Undergraduate Library
SkillfUL Tech Workshops
Undergraduate Library
Design Elements
Design Process

Sample Books about Research

An Introduction to Survey Research by Ernest Cowles; Edward Nelson
Call Number: e-book
Learn how to understand and use surveys effectively, avoid the pitfalls stemming from bad survey construction and inappropriate methods, how best to identify the information needed and the best approach to get that information. Each chapter focuses on one of the key components of constructing and carrying out a survey.
Practical Guide to Needs Assessment by Catherine M. Sleezer
Call Number: e-book
Includes ready-to-use templates, case studies, and tips for to assess needs for individuals, teams, organizations, government agencies, and communities. Learn how to manage and report a needs assessment project and access professional ethical guidelines.