Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2022 - POL 201 B100

Introductory Quantitative Methods in Political Science (4)

Class Number: 8175

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 10 – Apr 11, 2022: Wed, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 23, 2022
    Sat, 8:30–10:30 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Corequisites:

    POL 200W or permission of department.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Introduces quantitative research techniques in political science. Introduces important analytical and conceptual skills necessary to understand and evaluate quantitative political science research. Quantitative.

COURSE DETAILS:

The objective of this module is to introduce students to the practice of quantitative data analysis in the social sciences. The lecture component of the module will provide an introduction to the fundamentals of quantitative measurement, and statistical description, causal inference, and hypothesis testing. It will also provide a foundation for understanding the statistical models used in the social sciences. In the laboratory component, students will learn to apply these techniques to the analysis of social science data. Through lab assignments, students will have the opportunity to test hypotheses and explanations on major research data sets. The module should provide a sound grasp of the possibilities, methods, and dangers inherent in quantitative social and political research. I assume no prior background with using a statistical computer package; however, you will spend significant time in the course learning how to use computers to conduct statistical analyses.

BLENDED Course Format:

Each week will have approximately 5 x 20 minutes = 100 minutes of asynchronous lecture time, 50 minutes of synchronous online meeting time (optional except when indicated as mandatory), and 110 minutes of in-person tutorials.

Grading

  • Lab Assignments 30%
  • Problem Sets 15%
  • Mid‐Term Exam 25%
  • Final Exam 30%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

THE FUNDAMENTALS OF POLITICAL SCIENCE RESEARCH 

BY KELLSTEDT, PAUL M. AND WHITTEN, GUY D.

CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY PRESS

PUBLICATION DATE: JUL. 26, 2018


ISBN: 9781316642672

Department Undergraduate Notes:

The Department of Political Science strictly enforces a policy on plagiarism.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

TEACHING AT SFU IN SPRING 2022

Teaching at SFU in spring 2022 will involve primarily in-person instruction, with safety plans in place.  Some courses will still be offered through remote methods, and if so, this will be clearly identified in the schedule of classes.  You will also know at enrollment whether remote course components will be “live” (synchronous) or at your own pace (asynchronous).

Enrolling in a course acknowledges that you are able to attend in whatever format is required.  You should not enroll in a course that is in-person if you are not able to return to campus, and should be aware that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who may need class or exam accommodations, including in the context of remote learning, are advised to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as early as possible in order to prepare for the spring 2022 term.