This course trains students to quantitatively analyze data used in social science research. Lectures and exercises take the student from the original formulation of a researchable idea, to correct research designs and data collection, to the analysis of data and substantive interpretations. Personal computers will be used during all aspects of the survey research, from the construction of a bibliography to the preparation of a final report. Students will also be learn quantitative reasoning skills and the mathematical operations associated with them, such as probability, matrix algebra, and statistical reasoning. Students will also access Interactive Tutorials being developed for this course.

Each student will do a series of quantitative analyses of various research questions, from descriptive to causal models. The Conceptual Path Model approach will be used throughout the course, emphasizing how CPM’s can be quantified. One broad, substantive research question will be used by each student to provide a coherent inquiry throughout the entire semester.

SASPC will be used to analyze various data available in SOCQRL, including survey data that previous sociology classes have collected or compiled (The Chicago Collar County Project, or C3 Project). Students will learn how to create indices and scales, produce descriptive statistics and related graphics, test simple explanatory models using tabular and regression techniques. The final report will include a POWERPOINT presentation.

At the completion of this course, students should be able to translate substantive problems into Conceptual Path Models; design and draw scientific samples, apply the appropriate quantitative analysis tools to estimate parameters in the model; and communicate and present the results to a lay as well as a professional audience.

The skills taught in this course qualify students for entry level positions in the fields of survey research, public opinion polling, market research, and data analysis.