How can we use charts and maps to tell meaningful stories in the social sciences? How can we identify when they instead mislead us? In this introductory hands-on course, we will create data visualizations in order to better understand visual design principles and develop critical analysis skills. Students will learn skills in both quantitative reasoning and digital storytelling as we advance from beginner tools to editing code templates. No coding experience is necessary, but curiosity is required.
How do we learn things in social science? Where does the science come in? And what does this have to do with how we (and others) consume information in the real world? In this course, you will be introduced to the scientific method in the social science context, and you will study a variety of approaches to gathering data and testing hypotheses. Among both quantitative and qualitative research approaches, there are trade-offs, and some methods are better suited to answering a specific question than others. You will practice with both research approaches, as well as examining how misapplications of either approach can cause harm – both in academia and outside of it. Special attention will be paid to how collaborating with those traditionally seen as the “subjects” of our research – through such frameworks as participatory action research and civically engaged research – can help mitigate these harms and result in better knowledge gains.
This course is an overview of research methods that introduces you to topics you may be interested in studying further. The broad learning objective for this course is to help you become better consumers of information by developing the tools you will need to be informed participants and active leaders in society. It will help you engage critically with research you see in upper-level courses in the social sciences and will prepare you for work on a senior thesis, if you choose that option.