Time: Tues. & Thurs., 2:00-3:30 pm
Location: 202 South Hall
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Instructor: Coye Cheshire Office: 305A South Hall Office Hours: TBA (510)643-6388 coye{at}ischool.berkeley.edu |
Course Overview
The goal of this course is to provide students with an introduction to many different types of quantitative research methods and statistical techniques. This course will be divided into two major sections: 1) methods for quantitative research and, 2) quantitative statistical techniques for analyzing data. We begin with a focus on defining research problems, theory testing, causal inference, and designing research instruments. Then, we will explore a range of statistical techniques and methods that are available for empirical research. Topics in research methods include: Primary and Secondary Data Analysis, Sampling, Survey Design, and Experimental Designs. Topics in quantitative techniques include: Descriptive Statistics, Inferential Statistics, and Linear Regression. There are no prerequisites, though an introductory course in statistics is recommended.
Course Readings
All of the required course readings are in the two textbooks (see below). Students are expected to do the readings before each class. This is important in every class, but in a methodology course it is absolutely essential. There are parts of the lectures that will not make sense if you do not do the readings in advance.
Textbook Readings
Bernard, Russell H. Social Research Methods: Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches.- Available at the campus bookstore under our course, or through www.amazon.com. This is a great introduction to methods of research with a focus on those used in the social sciences. We will primarily draw from the quantitative methods-oriented material, but the qualitative sections will be a great resource for many of you.
- Available at the campus bookstore under our course, or through www.amazon.com. This is an excellent introduction to using the STATA software package, with an emphasis on using the software to accomplish common analyses and procedures.
Course Assignments and Final Exam
There are five short "lab assignments" in this course. Some of these will be completed individually; others will be completed in small groups. The assignments will be distributed during the lab sections (combined total of 50% of final grade). The final take-home exam will cover all of the major topics in the course (research methods, data management and analysis techniques, statistical analysis and interpretation). This exam will account for 40% of the final grade. Finally, a portion of your grade (10%) will come from regular attendance, class participation, and instructor discretion.- Lab Assignments (4 total): 40%
- Final Take-Home Exam: 50%
- Participation and Instructor discretion: 10%
Course Software
An important part of working with quantitative research methods involves the use of statistical software. Students in this course are required to purchase a student license for STATA 9 (details will be provided in class).
- STATA - Good for beginners and intermediate; powerful