SOCY 580
Survey Research Methods
Catalog Entry
SOCY 580. Survey Research Methods
Credit Hours (3).
Prerequisite: graduate standing
This course covers the construction of an instrument, sampling design and methods of analysis and interpretation of data. It acquaints students with the use of computers for social science research. Students gain a hands-on experience with design and completion of survey research that is valuable for any student entering a career requiring familiarity with the basis of social survey research. Students receiving undergraduate credit for SOCY 480 cannot also receive graduate credit for SOCY 580.
Detailed Description of Course
1. Selection of Research Problem
2. Deciding on choice of survey method.
3. Construction of questionnaire or instrument
4. Sample selection
5. Collection of Data
6. Quantification and analysis of data
7. Statistical analysis of data
8. Preparation of professional research articles
9. The publication/presentation process
10. Ethical Problems in survey research
Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
An informal approach is used in classroom lectures in which students are deeply involved in all aspects of the research process. Students spend most of the semester designing and conducting an independent research project with the help andguidance of the professor and other students.
Goals and Objectives of the Course
Students will be able to sharpen research skills and fully design and complete an independent research project; this would prepare students for careers in which survey research skills are needed.
Assessment Measures
Graded assignments may include a mid-term exam and a final exam, various graded assignments and drafts of research papers, and in-class or out-of-class assignments. The majority of the grade reflects the students progress on an independent research project and the preparation of a manuscript based on that project.
Other Course Information
Students in this course will be expected to be well-versed in the selection of appropriate statistical procedures to complete research problems, and the use of the computer to apply those choices to their own data sets. Students enrolled in this course for graduate credit will be expected to complete all course requirements for undergraduate students, and, in addition, will be expected to include a sample that is more representative of the student population than is expected for undergraduates, will be required to use more sophisticated analyses of their data, and their work will be held to a higher standard than the undergraduate students.
Review and Approval
Date Action Reviewed By
VPAA January05