Quantitative Methods from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Before we get started...

In this first module we'll consider the basic principles of the scientific method, its history and its philosophies. But before we start talking methods, I'll give you a broad sense of what the course is about and how it's organized. Are you new to Coursera or still deciding whether this is the course for you? Then make sure to check out the 'Introduction' and 'What to expect' section below, so you'll have the essential information you need to decide and to do well in this course! If you have any questions about the course format, deadlines or grading, you'll probably find the answers here. Are you a Coursera veteran and anxious to get started? Then you might want to skip ahead to the first course topic: the Origins of the Scientific Method. You can always check the general information later. Veterans and newbies alike: Don't forget to introduce yourself in the 'meet and greet' forum!

Origins of the scientific method

Science is all about gaining knowledge, coming up with the best possible explanations of the world around us. So how do we decide which explanation is the best one? How do we make sure our explanations are accurate? How do we determine we actually know something? In science we try to resolve these questions by using a set of principles and procedures called the scientific method. You need to know its historical and philosophical 'origin story' to really understand the scientific method and to fully appreciate how hard it is to apply the scientific method in the social and behavioral sciences!

The Scientific Method

In the first module we discussed how the scientific method developed, general philosophical approaches and the types of knowledge science aims to find. In this second module we'll make these abstract principles and concepts a little more concrete by discussing the empirical cycle and causality in more detail. We’ll see how, and in what order these concepts are implemented when we conduct a research study. We'll also consider the main criteria for evaluating the methodological quality of a research study: Validity and reliability. The focus will be on internal validity and how internal validity can be threatened.

Research Designs

In the previous module we discussed the empirical cycle, causality and the criteria for methodological quality, focusing on threats to internal validity. In this module we'll consider the most frequently used research designs and we'll see how they address threats to internal validity. We'll look at experimental, quasi-experimental and correlational designs, as well as some other designs you should be familiar with. To understand and appreciate these designs we will discuss some general concepts such as randomization and matching in a little more detail.

Measurement

Choosing a design is only the first step in the deduction phase (remember the empirical cycle?). The second step is deciding on specific ways to measure the variables of interest and disinterest. This step is extremely important, because even if we are able to perform a true double-blind experiment, if our measurement and manipulation method are of poor quality, then internal validity will still be compromised! In this module we'll look at what measurement is exactly and what the criteria for evaluating measurement are. We will also look more in-depth at self-report measures, including survey, questionnaires and tests. These methods are among the most frequently used measurement instruments in the social and behavioral sciences.

Sampling

In the previous two modules we discussed research designs and methods to measure and manipulate our variables of interest and disinterest. Before a researcher can move on to the testing phase and can actually collect data, there is just one more procedure that needs to be decided on: Sampling. Researchers need to determine who potential participants are and how they will be selected and recruited.

Practice, Ethics & Integrity

In this last content module we will focus on the part of the research process that follows data collection. The specifics of storing data and using statistics form a course topic in their own right (see the specialization courses on Basic and Inferential Statistics). For now we will focus on more general issues to do with data, interpretation and dissemination of results that relate to ethics and integrity. Some of the concepts that we discuss here will be familiar if you watched the interviews of the past modules. It might be interesting to (re-)watch these if you have the time!

Catch Up

In this module there's no new material to study. The only requirement in this module is that you finish up the final peer review assignment. We also advise you to take some extra time to review the material from the previous modules and to practice for the final exam. We've provided two practice exams that you can take as many times as you like. In the first one, feedback for each answer will be provided right after taking the test. We've also created some screencast videos that explain the right answers to the second practice exam in more detail.

Exam Time!

This is the final module, where you can apply everything you've learned until now in the final exam. The final exam is structured exactly like the practice exam, so you know what to expect. Please note that you can only take the final exam once a month, so make sure you are fully prepared to take the test. Please follow the honor code and do not communicate or confer with others taking this exam. Good luck! Once you've taken the exam why not check out the bonus material - a series of presentations on research integrity in the social sciences, presented at a special symposium at the University of Amsterdam in 2014.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

This introductory level social sciences research methods course covers essential concepts

Utilizes examples from a range of social science fields

Focus is on quantitative methods

Gives learners the tools they need to evaluate the quality and validity of research

Teaches key principles and philosophies of scientific research

Covers foundational concepts necessary for advanced research

Reviews summary

Quantitative research bedrock

Learners say this course offers a strong foundation for understanding quantitative research methods and designs helpful for in-depth analyses of social issues. The course's strengths include: * **Well-organized structure and concise explanations**: Short videos, transcripts, and clear examples enhance comprehension of complex concepts, making challenging topics digestible for beginners. * **Practical assignments and quizzes**: These elements help reinforce learning, test understanding, and prepare learners to apply concepts in real-world scenarios. * **Engaging instructor**: The instructor's enthusiasm and animated delivery make the material interesting and easy to follow. * **Peer-reviewed graded assignments**: They provide learners with valuable feedback, foster critical thinking, and enhance their analytical skills. Overall, learners emphasize that this course provides a solid foundation for conducting quantitative research, especially for those interested in social sciences. While some assignments can be demanding, learners appreciate the course's comprehensiveness and highly recommend it to anyone seeking to expand their research knowledge.

Bonus interviews with experts in the field provide valuable insights into the practical applications of quantitative research methods and the challenges faced by researchers.

"The bonus interviews were really helpful, and the guest speakers provided valuable insights into the challenges of implementing the theory in practice."

"The interviews gave some new POVs."

The course incorporates a variety of assignments, including quizzes, written assignments, and peer-reviewed evaluations, which effectively test learners' understanding of the material and encourage critical thinking.

"The assignments really helped me to think deeper about what I've learned."

"The peer-review assignments are great. They take time, but the quality of questions, instructions, review criteria is exceptionally high, which helps you to learn even more."

The course presents complex concepts in a clear and straightforward manner, making them accessible to learners with varying backgrounds.

"The videos were very informative and very easy to follow. I enjoyed taking notes and then going back to watch the videos."

This course provides a clear and structured overview of the philosophical and historical foundations of scientific research, helping learners understand the evolution of research methods and the importance of scientific principles.

"The course covered the philosophical and historical foundations of the scientific method, as well as a systematic overview of research designs, including types of errors in research design, measurement, and sampling."

The peer review process can be unreliable, with some participants submitting low-quality or plagiarized work, which can impact the fairness and accuracy of evaluations.

"Most people just give perfect grades to everyone, and the quality of the assignment doesn't matter."

"The peer review system has some flaws."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Quantitative Methods with these activities:

Review basic probability and statistics

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Strengthen your understanding of probability and statistics, which are essential for research methods.

Browse courses on Probability

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Review your previous notes on probability and statistics.
Take practice tests or quizzes to assess your understanding.
Seek help from a tutor or online resources if needed.

Complete online research tutorials

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Explore interactive tutorials to reinforce your understanding of specific research methods and techniques.

Browse courses on Research Methods

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Identify the areas where you need additional support.
Find reputable online tutorials that cover those topics.
Work through the tutorials at your own pace.

Review 'Research Methods for the Social Sciences'

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Reinforce your understanding of research methods by reviewing a classic textbook in the field.

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Read the assigned chapters.
Take notes and summarize the key concepts.
Complete the practice exercises at the end of each chapter.

Four other activities

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Solve research puzzles

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Practice your skills in applying the principles of research methods by solving puzzles and problems.

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Read a research problem or puzzle.
Identify the key concepts and variables involved in the problem.
Apply the principles of research methods to solve the problem.
Check your solution against the provided answer or solution guide.

Participate in research discussion groups

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Engage with your peers to discuss and debate research methods and findings.

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Join an online or in-person discussion group.
Read the assigned materials and prepare your thoughts.
Participate actively in the discussion, sharing your insights and perspectives.

Design a research poster

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Synthesize your understanding of research methods by creating a visual representation of a research project.

Browse courses on Research Methods

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Choose a research project to focus on.
Gather the relevant data and information.
Design the poster using a visually appealing and informative format.

Attend a research methodology workshop

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Immerse yourself in a structured learning environment to gain hands-on experience in research methods.

Browse courses on Research Methods

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Identify and register for a reputable research methodology workshop.
Attend the workshop and actively participate in the activities.
Apply the knowledge and skills you gained to your own research projects.

Career center

Learners who complete Quantitative Methods will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Research Scientist

Research scientists conduct research to advance knowledge in a particular field. They may work for a variety of organizations, including universities, research institutions, and government agencies. The Quantitative Methods course may be useful for aspiring research scientists, as it provides a solid foundation in the principles of scientific methods and research design. Additionally, the course covers topics such as measurement and sampling, which are essential for research scientists to understand.

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Data Scientist

Data scientists use data to solve problems and make decisions. They may work for a variety of organizations, including businesses, research institutions, and government agencies. The Quantitative Methods course may be useful for aspiring data scientists, as it provides a solid foundation in the principles of scientific methods and research design. Additionally, the course covers topics such as measurement and sampling, which are essential for data scientists to understand.

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Risk Analyst

Risk analysts identify and assess risks for their organizations. They may work for a variety of organizations, including businesses, insurance companies, and government agencies. The Quantitative Methods course may be useful for aspiring risk analysts, as it provides a solid foundation in the principles of scientific methods and research design. Additionally, the course covers topics such as measurement and sampling, which are essential for risk analysts to understand.

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Financial Analyst

Financial analysts use financial data to make investment recommendations. They may work for a variety of organizations, including investment banks, hedge funds, and mutual funds. The Quantitative Methods course may be useful for aspiring financial analysts, as it provides a solid foundation in the principles of scientific methods and research design. Additionally, the course covers topics such as measurement and sampling, which are essential for financial analysts to understand.

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Quantitative Analyst

Quantitative analysts use quantitative methods to analyze data and make predictions. They may work for a variety of organizations, including investment banks, hedge funds, and consulting firms. The Quantitative Methods course may be useful for aspiring quantitative analysts, as it provides a solid foundation in the principles of scientific methods and research design. Additionally, the course covers topics such as measurement and sampling, which are essential for quantitative analysts to understand.

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Market Researcher

Market researchers conduct surveys and collect data to understand consumer behavior. They may work for a variety of organizations, including businesses, non-profits, and government agencies. The Quantitative Methods course may be useful for aspiring market researchers, as it provides a solid foundation in the principles of scientific methods and research design. Additionally, the course covers topics such as measurement and sampling, which are essential for market researchers to understand.

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Public relations manager

Public relations managers develop and implement public relations campaigns to promote their organizations. They may work for a variety of organizations, including businesses, non-profits, and government agencies. The Quantitative Methods course may be useful for aspiring public relations managers, as it provides a solid foundation in the principles of scientific methods and research design. Additionally, the course covers topics such as measurement and sampling, which can be helpful for public relations managers to understand when evaluating the effectiveness of their campaigns.

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Social Media Manager

Social media managers develop and implement social media strategies to promote their organizations. They may work for a variety of organizations, including businesses, non-profits, and government agencies. The Quantitative Methods course may be useful for aspiring social media managers, as it provides a solid foundation in the principles of scientific methods and research design. Additionally, the course covers topics such as measurement and sampling, which can be helpful for social media managers to understand when evaluating the effectiveness of their campaigns.

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Advertising Manager

Advertising managers develop and implement advertising campaigns to promote products and services. They may work for a variety of organizations, including businesses, advertising agencies, and media companies. The Quantitative Methods course may be useful for aspiring advertising managers, as it provides a solid foundation in the principles of scientific methods and research design. Additionally, the course covers topics such as measurement and sampling, which can be helpful for advertising managers to understand when evaluating the effectiveness of their campaigns.

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Survey Researcher

Survey researchers design and conduct surveys to collect data on a variety of topics. They may work for a variety of organizations, including businesses, non-profits, and government agencies. The Quantitative Methods course may be useful for aspiring survey researchers, as it provides a solid foundation in the principles of scientific methods and research design. Additionally, the course covers topics such as measurement and sampling, which are essential for survey researchers to understand.

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Community Manager

Community managers build and manage online communities for their organizations. They may work for a variety of organizations, including businesses, non-profits, and government agencies. The Quantitative Methods course may be useful for aspiring community managers, as it provides a solid foundation in the principles of scientific methods and research design. Additionally, the course covers topics such as measurement and sampling, which can be helpful for community managers to understand when evaluating the effectiveness of their outreach efforts.

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Statistician

Statisticians apply statistical methods to collect and analyze data. They may work in a variety of industries, including healthcare, finance, and education. The Quantitative Methods course may be useful for aspiring statisticians, as it provides a solid foundation in the principles of scientific methods and research design. Additionally, the course covers topics such as measurement and sampling, which are essential for statisticians to understand.

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Data Analyst

Data analysts collect, clean, and analyze data to identify trends and patterns. They may work in a variety of industries, including healthcare, finance, and retail. The Quantitative Methods course may be useful for aspiring data analysts, as it provides a solid foundation in the principles of scientific methods and research design. Additionally, the course covers topics such as measurement and sampling, which are essential for data analysts to understand.

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Product Manager

Product managers develop and manage products for their organizations. They may work for a variety of organizations, including businesses, software companies, and consulting firms. The Quantitative Methods course may be useful for aspiring product managers, as it provides a solid foundation in the principles of scientific methods and research design. Additionally, the course covers topics such as measurement and sampling, which can be helpful for product managers to understand when evaluating the effectiveness of their products.

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Customer Success Manager

Customer success managers help customers achieve success with their products or services. They may work for a variety of organizations, including businesses, software companies, and consulting firms. The Quantitative Methods course may be useful for aspiring customer success managers, as it provides a solid foundation in the principles of scientific methods and research design. Additionally, the course covers topics such as measurement and sampling, which can be helpful for customer success managers to understand when evaluating the effectiveness of their strategies.

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