Course Goals for Introductory Statistics

Site last updated on January 25, 1998.
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The course in the Spring of 1998 is designed to explore several goals:

• An overview of the intelligent reading of sociology, with an understanding of how theory orients our approach to measurement, how methodological perspectives orient the the collection of data, and how statistical analysis permits us to fit both measurement and theory into interpretations that help us make and assess social decisions. To this end, you have Curran and Takata's text.

• The use of the Internet as both a source of data for analysis and as a resource both for textual materials and for our own intra-class discussions and projects. This goal fits into CSUDH's affirmation of the process of distance learning to establish greater resources and access for our students. To this end, you have a choice of either the Internet text on criminal justice, or the Internet text on women's issues.

• The development of computer skills for accessing computerized analysis of data. This means that a basic understanding of how the analyses are conducted is required, but that the computer will do all the computation work. To this end, you have an SPSS text.

• The development of a certain degree of sophistication in learning to use high tech. The problem with high tech is always that complex technology breaks down, when you least expect it, and when you most need it. We will establish procedures during this course for handling the breakdown of computer technology, both the university's, and your own. High tech, like the freeway, is useless if you don't know how to handle emergencies that require alternative procedures and support. To this end, your teacher promises loving support. We will find ways around the barriers. Just bring them to our attention as quickly as you can.

• Basic computer literacy. Minimally, all students will learn not to be intimidated by an inscrutable computer screen and an obstinate program. This is more a matter of learning to tolerate the ambiguity of temperamental equipment than it is of computational or interpretive skills. Again, to this end, we promise our support and understanding. Do not panic. Come to us. Or e-mail us from the site.

  Panic message to Jeanne Curran. You may enter Panic for the subject of the message. That will alert me. Then do your best to describe what is frightening you. And don't forget to go back to check my e-mail response!

• Recognizing that we have a broad range of interests, there will be an optional component to the course for those who want to pursue social science research. There are three or four community research projects under way in the Law and Society Research Center. We recommend this option to those who plan to pursue a doctorate, or to go into some professional field where actual experience in social research will help you gain admission and will prepare you more effectively for professional training.

  If you would like to participate in the community projects option of the class e-mail me of your interest. We need all skill levels, so don't be afraid to volunteer. And some of the work can be done by distance, so that you may participate even if you have time constraints. Message to Jeanne that you would like to take part in community research projects.

E-mail Jeanne at: jcurran@csudh.edu