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Evaluating Evidence (212-0-20)

Instructors

Leoandra Elaine Rogers

Mary Caroline McGrath

Meeting Info

Harris Hall 107: Mon, Wed 2:00PM - 3:20PM

Overview of class

Evaluating Evidence introduces undergraduates to the array of data that social scientists use to answer complex social issues. The course teaches them to: (a) identify the key features of different types of evidence (qualitative versus naturalistic versus experimental data); (b) understand the contributions and limitations of each data type; (c) appropriate tools to assess the quality of each type of evidence; and (d) use such knowledge to critically evaluate empirical findings and that conclusions drawn in social science research. In-class activities and applied assignments will provide opportunities for students to strengthen critical thinking skills in the context of scientific methods, data, and interpretation.

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, students will be able to:


  • Collect and analyze qualitative data.

  • Collect and analyze quantitative data.

  • Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of both qualitative and quantitative data.

  • Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of arguments made by others using qualitative and quantitative data.

  • Understand the role of uncertainty in making estimates, and the role of perspective in drawing conclusions.

  • Know what epistemology refers to and how different epistemologies underlie different methods of investigation.

Class Materials (Required)

None

Class Attributes

Social & Behavioral Sciences Distro Area