Lecture 1 Variables

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Questions and Answers

Which characteristic defines nominal level variables?

They measure numerical values.

They can be ranked or ordered.

They classify observations into distinct categories. (correct)

They provide absolute measurements.

What is a key limitation of nominal variables?

They cannot be counted.

They do not allow for ranking between categories. (correct)

They require numerical values for analysis.

They can be measured on a continuous scale.

What example illustrates a nominal variable?

A person's age in years.

Religious affiliation of a group. (correct)

Temperature readings in Celsius.

Ratings of customer satisfaction.

How do nominal variables compare in terms of measurement precision?

They are the least precise among measurement levels. Signup and view all the answers

What type of question would typically gather ordinal level measurement data?

How would you rate your shopping experience? Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of quantitative research methods?

To minimize personal opinions and biases in findings Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best defines a value judgment in research?

A choice between alternatives considered right or wrong Signup and view all the answers

In the context of social science research, what is a hypothesis?

A statement about the relationship between variables Signup and view all the answers

What element represents the summary patterns observed in data from research?

Generalizations Signup and view all the answers

Why can complete objectivity never be achieved in research?

Due to the necessity of making value judgments Signup and view all the answers

Which level of measurement allows for ranking categories and also includes judgements of 'greater than' and 'less than'?

Ordinal Signup and view all the answers

In which level of measurement is it permissible only to classify data into categories without any ranking?

Nominal Signup and view all the answers

What mathematical operations are permitted with interval level measurements?

Addition and subtraction Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following levels of measurement includes measuring distances between scores?

Interval Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic is NOT associated with nominal level measurement?

Ranking of categories Signup and view all the answers

An example of a variable measured at the interval level is:

Temperature in Celsius Signup and view all the answers

Which level of measurement can be used for calculating the mean of data values?

Interval Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a variable measured at the ordinal level?

Satisfaction Rating Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a step in the scientific method?

Gather anecdotal evidence Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of the total grade is attributed to the final exam?

35% Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the course?

To provide knowledge for conducting research using quantitative methods Signup and view all the answers

What is required for an assignment submitted 7 days late to be graded?

A valid reason for extension Signup and view all the answers

Which learning outcome involves understanding data interpretation?

Effectively interpret and evaluate data Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the dependent variable in the scientific method?

It represents the outcome being measured Signup and view all the answers

What type of techniques will students learn to utilize in this course?

Statistical techniques for data analysis and hypothesis testing Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best defines statistics in the context of social science?

Mathematical techniques for organizing data Signup and view all the answers

What is the focus of the weekly tutorials?

Practical use of analytical software (SPSS) Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of systematic procedures in quantitative research?

To follow a predetermined series of steps Signup and view all the answers

Which component is essential for gathering empirical data?

Measurement Signup and view all the answers

When do weekly lectures take place?

Thursdays from 9:35 to 11:25 Signup and view all the answers

What is emphasized during the lectures?

Foundational concepts, theories, and formulas Signup and view all the answers

How should students communicate their questions or concerns?

Via email, with TAs copied on correspondence Signup and view all the answers

What foundational concepts will students comprehend in this course?

Basic concepts and operations of empirical data analysis Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary hypothesis regarding household internet access and voter turnout?

Higher levels of household internet access correlate with higher voter turnout. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes good social science?

It integrates empirical evidence with normative values. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes methods from methodology in social research?

Methods are tools for data collection, while methodology is the justification for their use. Signup and view all the answers

What are the three primary characteristics of variables in research?

Mutually exclusive, exhaustive, and homogenous. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of research survey response categories, what does mutual exclusivity mean?

Each observation must belong to only one category without overlap. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misconception about social science as a field?

It must be free from any values to be considered scientific. Signup and view all the answers

Which phrase best captures the emphasis of statistical methods within political science?

Statistical methods offer a reliable understanding of complex realities. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it essential for response categories to be exhaustive in survey research?

To capture every possible response from participants. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Course Information

Course Title: Quantitative Research Methods in Political Science
Lecture Number: 1
Course Instructor: Michael E. Campbell
Course Number: PSCI 2702(A)
Date: 09/05/2024

Course Description

Purpose: Equip students with knowledge to conduct research using quantitative methods.
Content: Introduction to quantitative research methods, techniques, and formulas for data analysis.
Structure: Mix of theoretical lectures and practical tutorials.
Learning Outcomes:
- Understanding the purpose and advantages of social science research.
- Comprehension of foundational concepts and operations associated with empirical data analysis.
- Effective interpretation and evaluation of data.
- Application of various statistical techniques for data analysis and hypothesis testing.

Format

Lectures: Thursdays, 9:35 AM – 11:25 AM
Tutorials: Before or after lectures, group-dependent

Communication

Instructor Email: [email protected]
TA Email (Rohit Samaroo): [email protected]
TA Email (Kaia Goodhope): [email protected]

Course Materials

Required Textbook: "Statistics: A Tool for Social Research" by Healey, Donoghue, and Prus (2023, 5th ed.).
Resources: Textbook is on reserve at the library, additional readings on ARES reserves via Brightspace or Carleton Library Website.
Downloads: SPSS analytical software, Varieties of Democracy Data (links on Brightspace)

Grading Breakdown

Tutorial Attendance: 10%
Assignment #1: 10%; Due 10 October (11:59 PM)
Midterm Exam: 25%; 17 October (in-class)
Assignment #2: 20%; Due 5 December (11:59 PM)
Final Exam: 35%; TBA (during exam period)
Late Penalty: 5% per day without valid extension; 7-day late assignments will not be graded.

What are Quantitative Research Methods?

Research: Any systematic and careful process of gathering information to answer questions or test theories.
Statistics: Mathematical techniques for organizing and analyzing data to answer questions and test theories.
Quantitative Research: Relies on statistical analysis and predetermined steps. This approach seeks specific information about data in an organized, logical manner.

The Scientific Method

Steps: Identify the problem, hypothesize, define concepts, gather data, test hypotheses, reflect on theory, publicize results, replicate the analysis.
Founders: Empirical science can be traced to Aristotle (384 – 322 B.C.).

Natural Science: Studies natural phenomena, predictable, deals with facts.
Social Science: Studies society and behavior, less predictable, deals with facts and values.

Facts vs. Values

Facts: Observable, measurable, objective aspects of reality (what is).
Values: Normative, subjective judgments about what ought to be.

Value Judgments

Value judgment: A choice between beliefs considered right or wrong.
Quantitative Research: Aims to minimize personal opinions and biases as much as possible.
Empirical Testing of Opinions: Data should be used to support or refute beliefs.

Theory: Statement about the relationship between phenomena.
Hypothesis: Statement about the relationship between variables.
Observations: What is seen during data study.
Generalizations: Summary of patterns and relationships.

Empirical Research Example

Example scenario: relationship between informed electorate and voter turnout.
Theory, hypotheses, and observations relating to the scenario.

The Value of Statistics in Political Science

Social science is both empirical (factual) and normative (value-based).
Importance of reliable data collection.
Methods and methodologies provide structure for research.

Variables and Levels of Measurement

Variable: Any trait that changes from case to case (e.g., age, gender).

Characteristics of Variables

Mutually exclusive: Response categories do not overlap.
Exhaustive: All possible responses are accounted for.
Homogenous: All responses represent the same underlying concept.

Discrete vs. Continuous Variables

Discrete: Cannot be divided (whole numbers) (e.g., the number of people in a household).
Continuous: Can be subdivided infinitely, potentially with decimals (e.g., time, temperature).

Levels of Measurement

Nominal: Classifies into categories (categorical data).
Ordinal: Ranked categories (higher/lower).
Interval-Ratio: Equal intervals, meaningful zero (numerical).

Nominal Level of Measurement

Categorical data, different categories, cannot rank categories, only count comparisons.

Ordinal Level of Measurement

Ranked categories, descriptions of differences. Public opinion surveys frequently use ordinal measurement.

Interval-Ratio Level of Measurement

Highest level; equal intervals, a meaningful zero. Possible to use all mathematical operations.

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Description

This quiz covers the introductory concepts of quantitative research methods utilized in political science, as taught in Lecture 1 of PSCI 2702. Participants will explore foundational principles, techniques, and applications to analyze empirical data effectively.