University Program Information

Courses & Programs

• Summer Session
  • Summer Institute in Social Research Methods
  • Summer Research Residency Program (SRRP)
  • Summer Language Institute (SLI)
  • Summer Institute in Social Research Methods (SISRM)
  • Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL)

Course Details

Introductory Statistical Methods and Applications for the Social Sciences

Course Code

SOSC

Cross Listed Course Code(s)

SOSC 30112

Course Description

This course introduces and applies fundamental statistical concepts, principles, and procedures to the analysis of data in the social and behavioral sciences. Students will learn computation, interpretation, and application of commonly used descriptive and inferential statistical procedures as they relate to social and behavioral research. These include z-test, t-test, bivariate correlation and simple linear regression with an introduction to analysis of variance and multiple regression.

The course emphasizes understanding normal distributions, sampling distribution, hypothesis testing, and the relationship among the various techniques covered, and will integrate the use of R as a software tool for these techniques.

By the end of the course, the student will be able to (1) differentiate, utilize and apply statistical description and inference to applied research in behavioral sciences or other disciplines, (2) understand and be able to utilize various forms of charts and plots useful for statistical description, (3) understand and utilize the concept of statistical error and sampling distribution, (4) use a statistical program for data analysis, (5) select statistical procedures appropriate for the type of data collected and the research questions hypothesized, (6) distinguish between Type I and Type II errors in statistical hypothesis testing, (7) understand the concepts of statistical power and the influence of sample size on inference, and (8) summarize and write up the results.

Course Criteria

This course is open to all undergraduates and is included in the Summer Institute in Social Research Methods.

It is equivalent to SOCI 20004/30004, CHDV 20101/3010, PSYCH 20100, SOSC 26009/36009, and other introductory level applied statistics courses. This course is NOT equivalent to STAT 22000. As with its sister course, SOSC 20111, this course satisfies the methods requirement for the Comparative Human Development major, and the statistics requirement for the Sociology major. It is an approved elective for the Latin American and Caribbean Studies major, and is an approved methodology course for the Health and Society minor. It satisfies the methods requirement for the Public Policy Studies major. It may be approved as an elective for additional majors by petition, including the Political Science major and the Education and Society minor.

Instructor(s)

Yanyan Sheng

Course Duration

Summer Online

Session

Session 1

Course Dates

June 15th - July 3rd

Class Days

Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri

Class Time

9:30 am - 11:30 am

Eligibility

11th Grade, 12th Grade

Modality

Remote

University of Chicago Summary

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Overview:

The University of Chicago is a prestigious research university located in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago. It is known for its rigorous academic programs, emphasis on independent thinking, and commitment to intellectual freedom. The university boasts a diverse community of scholars and students who contribute to groundbreaking research and advancements in various fields.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

The university offers a vibrant campus experience with a diverse community, access to arts and culture, and a strong connection to the surrounding South Side neighborhood. Students can expect a challenging academic environment that fosters independent thinking and critical analysis.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Rigorous academic programs:

The university is renowned for its challenging and intellectually stimulating curriculum.

Emphasis on independent thinking:

Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking skills and engage in original research.

Intellectual freedom:

The university provides a supportive environment for faculty and students to pursue their research interests without limitations.

Field-defining research:

The university has a long history of groundbreaking research and discoveries that have shaped various fields.

Global impact:

The university is actively involved in addressing global challenges through research, initiatives, and programs across the world.

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Academic Programs:

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Other:

The university is deeply connected to its surrounding community and invests in the South Side through initiatives in health, education, economic growth, and the arts. It also emphasizes its commitment to diversity and inclusion, fostering a welcoming environment for students from all backgrounds.