Undergraduate Module Descriptor

SSI1005: Introduction to Social Data

This module descriptor refers to the 2021/2 academic year.

Module Aims

The aim of this module is to introduce you to quantitative research design,data collection and basic data analysis. More specifically, it uses data sets and research examples drawn from existing social science research to illustrate core concepts and methods in quantitative research. By introducing you to methods such as experiments and surveys, and the type of social science research that can be produced using these, this module lays the foundation for understanding quantitative methods and for your own experience in conducting quantitative studies.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

This module's assessment will evaluate your achievement of the ILOs listed here – you will see reference to these ILO numbers in the details of the assessment for this module.

On successfully completing the programme you will be able to:
Module-Specific Skills1. demonstrate basic knowledge of quantitative research design, data collection and some awareness of analytic techniques;
2. demonstrate basic understanding of what makes some quantitative research ‘good’ and some ‘bad’ quality (quality criterion);
Discipline-Specific Skills3. demonstrate an understanding of quantitative research design in the social sciences at an introductory level;
4. create a relevant social science research question and hypothesis;
Personal and Key Skills5. present quantitative data effectively and clearly; and
6. demonstrate numeracy skills which will be desirable to employers.