Fall 2025 - POL 201 D100
Introductory Quantitative Methods in Political Science (4)
Class Number: 2910
Delivery Method: In Person
Overview
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Course Times + Location:
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Mon, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby -
Exam Times + Location:
Dec 12, 2025
Fri, 11:59–11:59 p.m.
Burnaby
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Instructor:
Jessica Burch
jburch@sfu.ca
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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:
Quantitative research methods can look a lot like witchcraft. Practitioners use arcane symbols and formulae to produce results which are often equally incomprehensible to the untrained observer. Much like a magic spell, quantitative analysis can drive real change by providing hard evidence. In this course, we will demystify these powerful techniques, allowing students to claim this magic as their own.
This course focuses on the conceptual underpinnings of quantitative research in political science. Learning outcomes include quantitative data literacy, and the ability to calculate and select among various measures. Those interested in learning to use specific tools (e.g., R, Python) should take advantage of the many excellent resources offered by the SFU Library.
Grading
- Tutorial participation 18%
- Assignment 1 (completion) 2%
- (In person) Midterm 15%
- Assignment 2 15%
- Assignment 3 20%
- (Take home) Final 30%
Materials
REQUIRED READING:
Franco, J. (2020). Introduction to Political Science Research Methods. Creative Commons.
· Chapters 2-6, 8
· Accessible online through the SFU library: https://ipsrm.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/SP22-IPSRM-02.pdf
Keman, H., & Woldendorp, J. J. (2016). Handbook of research methods and applications in political science / edited by Hans Keman, Jaap J. Woldendorp. Edward Elgar Publishing.
· Chapters 4, 19, 24
· Accessible online through the SFU library: https://www-elgaronline-com.proxy.lib.sfu.ca/edcollbook/edcoll/9781784710811/9781784710811.xml
Brady, Henry E. (2008), ' Causation and Explanation in Social Science', in Janet M. Box-Steffensmeier, Henry E. Brady, and David Collier (eds), The Oxford Handbook of Political Methodology, https://doi-org.proxy.lib.sfu.ca/10.1093/oxfordhb/9780199286546.003.0010.
· Accessible online through the SFU library: https://academic-oup-com.proxy.lib.sfu.ca/edited-volume/28340/chapter/215138531
Hanneman, Robert A. (2012). Basic Statistics for Social Research, John Wiley & Sons, Incorporated, ProQuest Ebook Central.
· Chapters 12 - 13
· Accessible through the SFU library: https://ebookcentral-proquest-com.proxy.lib.sfu.ca/lib/sfu-ebooks/detail.action?docID=7103443.
REQUIRED READING NOTES:
Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.
Department Undergraduate Notes:
Registrar Notes:
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS
At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.
To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit:
- SFU’s Academic Integrity Policy: S10-01 Policy
- SFU’s Academic Integrity website, which includes helpful videos and tips in plain language: Academic Integrity at SFU
RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION
Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.