Sociology 202: Introduction to Research Methods

Course Dates & Location:
T & TR, 11:00 a.m. - 12:20 p.m.
210 Bessey Hall

Instructor:
Dr. G. Jones Johnson
202 East Hall, 515-294-2947, gjj@iastate.edu
Office Hours:T, W & TR 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. & by appointment

Teaching Assistant:
Kristen Wenke
419 East Hall, 515-294-1403, kwenke@iastate.edu
Office Hours: T 9:30-10:30 a.m.; TR 2:15-3:15 p.m.

Objective of Course:
The goal of the course is to familiarize students with the most important methods of data collection in social science research, particularly surveys, experiments, participant observation, intensive interviews, historical and comparative research and the benefits and liabilities of each major approach. It will acquaint students with a broad sampling of issues relevant to the understanding and application of research methods such as internet and social relations, domestic violence, crime, poverty and alcoholism. Students will gain the critical skills necessary to evaluate research and learn what questions to ask when critiquing a research study and how to evaluate the answers.

Required Readings:
Earl Babbie. The Practice of Social Research. 11th or 12th Edition. Belmont, CA: Thomson-Wadsworth.
Additional readings are posted on Web-CT.

Books are available at the University Bookstore and a copy will be on reserve in Parks Library. You can also use alternative ways that you know to purchase the textbook such as Amazon.com