Introduction to Political Data and Analysis
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| POLI1031 | Politics and International Relations | 1 | 20 | Full Year UK |
- Code
- POLI1031
- School
- Politics and International Relations
- Level
- 1
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Full Year UK
Summary
This is the first module in SPIR’s Quantitative Methods (QM) pathway. It introduces the broad concepts of data, statistics, data science, and quantitative methods. In the first part of the module, the main topics include: the nature, character, and use (as well as misuse) of quantitative data in the news and in government; identifying fallacious arguments based on data; summarizing, visualizing, and communicating data to an audience; and using empirical data to inform arguments. We will explore these themes using a variety of materials and examples.
In the second part of the module, the character, theory, and use of inferential statistics in the social sciences (i.e., estimation, hypothesis testing, random sampling) is presented with no expectations of mathematical training or background. The character of bi-variate analysis and the application of these topics in empirical political science research are emphasized. Practical training in these topics (e.g., use of statistical software) will be an integral part of the module.
Target Students
Available to Year 1 UG students in the School of Politics and International Relations on the Politics and International Relations plan.
Classes
This module is taught through a combination of lectures and seminars.
Assessment
- 25% Coursework 1: 1000 word project
- 25% Coursework 2: 800 word project
- 25% Coursework 3: 1000 word project
- 25% Take home practical: 1000 word take-home practical
Assessed in both autumn & spring semest
Educational Aims
This module aims to:• To provide an advanced introduction to the use and usefulness of quantitative methods for communicating, summarizing information, and argumentation• To provide examples and applications of the use of QM in the social world• To provide the basis for further QM study• To expose students to computational techniques for summarizing and visualizing data and introducing students to statistical software useful for the analysis of quantitative dataLearning Outcomes
Knowledge and understanding
· How quantitative methods can be used in the study of politics.
· How quantitative data can be used in the study of politics.
· How quantitative data can be summarized.
· How quantitative data can be used to as evidence.
· Sampling and sampling distributions.
· Elements of inferential statistics.
Intellectual skills
- Conduct multiple types of comparisons of quantitative data.
- Critically analyze and disseminate information.
- Organize and deploy evidence, data, and information.
- Identify fallacious arguments and/or misuse of statistics.
- Adequately use inferential statistics on actual quantitative data (to the level taught in the module).
Professional and practical skills
- Manage own learning self-critically.
- Present quantitative data in an accessible and interpretable manner.
Transferable (key) skills
- Use general purpose statistical methods and practices.
- Use digital evidence to solve problems and answer questions.
- Collate, manage, and access digital data.