The goal of this course is to increase student knowledge and understanding of the research process that links theory and hypothesis development and empirical applications in rural areas. Special emphasis will be placed on the use of qualitative methods in conducting research in the rural area. Students will enhance their skills and obtain experience in organizing and leading class discussions; reading, interpreting and integrating theoretical and empirical studies; writing a book review; and writing essays that integrate ideas from assigned materials with student evaluations of the materials.