M.INC.SOCI.601: Social Science Research Methods (Quantitative)
Learning outcome
The primary objective of this course is to have the student gain competence in conducting a statistical social science research study. Students will learn about the abilities necessary to design, implement, analyse, and critically discuss quantitative research up to the level of univariate (parametric and non-parametric) analysis. These abilities will be acquired and sharpened in a 'hands-on' manner throughout the semester.
The main workload for this class comes from the semester-long, empirical study undertaken by each student. The topic for this project is up to the each student but must be approved by the examiner of the paper; the topic must also have a social science component (i.e., it must involve people as respondents or research subjects). The studies may be pilot projects for intended thesis work, but they may not be a replication of work undertaken for other current or past classes.
A key component in research is the presentation of results to the 'wider world'. To this end, each student will be required to orally present the results of his or her study during an in-class conference, which is held at the end of the semester. Each student will also be required to write up her or his study in journal article form.
Topics
- Planning research
- Literature reviews
- Ethics in social science research
- Data files; data transformation
- Modes of observation
- Probabilities and frequencies
- Instruments
- Descriptive statistics and graphs
- Sampling
- Causation, validity, and correlation
- General linear model tests
- Nonparametric tests
- Professional writing
- Presenting results 'live'
Courses and examination
- Lecture: Social Science Research Methods (Quantitative). Exam: Written exam
- Seminar: Social Science Research Methods (Quantitative). Exam: Written assignment (max 15-20p)
Prerequisites for examination: Because this course does not have a final examination, there are no required tasks. However, in order to complete the mandatory research project, students will need to provide a research plan, obtain ethical approval for the research project, conduct the project and then present it in two formats (a conference presentation and a draft journal article).
Further details
- Admission requirements: None
- Recommended previous knowledge: None
- Language: English
- Person responsible for module: Gary Steel
- Course frequency: Each winter semester
- Duration: One semester
- Number of repeat examinations permitted: Twice
- Recommended Semester: First to third semester
- Maximum number of students: 10