SOC 200 - Social Research Using Statistics

5.0 Credits
Introduction to research methods and statistics used in the social sciences. Examines the challenges involved in studying human behavior and in analyzing and interpreting social science data. Designed to help students become informed consumers of scientific research (was SOCIO 200). Prerequisite: Completion of MATH 090 or MATH 095 with a grade of 2.0 or higher. Eligibility for ENGL 100.

Course Objectives
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

Apply scientific principles, including the probabilistic methods of social science, in generating empirical understanding. [REASON]
Distinguish between deductive and inductive approaches to research. [REASON]
Address issues regarding measurement and data collection when linking the conceptual and operational levels of the research process. [REASON]
Distinguish between probability and non-probability samples and evaluate research findings in terms of their generalizability. [REASON]
Identify the advantages and disadvantages of the primary research methods employed in the social sciences. [REASON]
Generate, analyze, and interpret basic descriptive statistics, including measures of central tendency and dispersion, cross-tables, measures of association. [REASON]
Apply univariate inferential statistics, including confidence intervals and hypothesis testing. [REASON]
Apply methodological and statistical tools to examine the role of race and ethnicity, social class, and gender (and other dimensions embodying diversity) in shaping social behavior. [EXPLORE]
In individual and group projects, communicate an understanding of research methods and statistics both orally and in writing. [COMMUNICATE]