This course introduces students to the logics of sociological inquiry. While all sociological studies rely on empirical research (the systematic collection and analysis of data), sociologists use and combine very different types of inquiry. They conduct surveys, draw on administrative databases, interview people, conduct field observations, set up experiments, dig into historical archives, and more. In this course, we will learn about various modes of inquiry in sociology – their logics, possibilities, and limitations – by exploring different approaches to the study of social inequalities.
By the end of the course, students can expect to:
- Have a good understanding of the various approaches to sociological inquiry;
- Be able to read, understand, and critically analyze sociological research;
- Understand, and be able to explain, the strengths and limitations of various methodologies;
- Be able to come up with solid research designs to answer sociological questions;
- Be able to conduct some data collection and analysis.
All the assignments will be graded out of 20, according to the rubrics posted on Moodle. The final grade for the course is calculated on the basis of: the final exam counts for one-third, the continuous evaluation counts for two-thirds.
The continuous evaluation includes the following:
- Discussion section assignments (50%)
- Mid-term exam (20%)
- Reading reports (20%)
- Participation (10%)