Description
Book SynopsisThis text provides a practical, hands-on introduction to data conceptualization, measurement, and association through active learning. Students get step-by-step instruction on data analysis using the latest version of SPSS and the most current General Social Survey data. The text starts with an introduction to computerized data analysis and the social research process, then walks users through univariate, bivariate, and multivariate analysis using SPSS. The book contains applications from across the social sciences—sociology, political science, social work, criminal justice, health—so it can be used in courses offered in any of these departments. The Eleventh Edition uses the latest general Social Survey (GSS) data, and the latest available version of SPSS. The GSS datasets now offer additional variables for more possibilities in the demonstrations and exercises within each chapter.
Trade ReviewThis text has been a lifesaver! Although the material is challenging, I have been continually impressed with my student’s ability to come away from this course with the ability to perform their own (small) data analysis project in the final week using what they learned. . . . Many start with zero knowledge or experience with research, and in a very short time period are able to get up to speed with the terminology, and to sift through all of the various ‘rules’ of data analysis (which measures of association, tests of significance, etc. to use based on their variables) like pros. -- Kristie Vise
Table of ContentsPart I Preparing for Data Analysis Chapter 1 Introduction: The Theory and Practice of Social Research Chapter 2 The Logic of Measurement Chapter 3 Description of Data Sets: The General Social Survey Part II Univariate Analysis Chapter 4 Using SPSS Statistics: Some Basics Chapter 5 Describing Your Data: Religiosity Chapter 6 Presenting Your Data in Graphic Form: Political Orientations Chapter 7 Recoding Your Data: Religiosity and Political Orientations Chapter 8 Creating Composite Measures: Exploring Attitudes Toward Abortion in More Depth Chapter 9 Suggestions for Further Analysis Part III Bivariate Analysis Chapter 10 Examining the Sources of Religiosity Chapter 11 Political Orientations as Cause and Effect Chapter 12 What Causes Different Attitudes Toward Abortion? Chapter 13 Measures of Association for Nominal and Ordinal Variables Chapter 14 Correlation and Regression Analysis Chapter 15 Tests of Significance Chapter 16 Suggestions for Further Bivariate Analyses Part IV Multivariate Analysis Chapter 17 Multiple Causation: Examining Religiosity in Greater Depth Chapter 18 Dissecting the Political Factor Chapter 19 A Powerful Prediction of Attitudes Toward Abortion Chapter 20 Suggestions for Further Multivariate Analyses Part V The Adventure Continues Chapter 21 Designing and Executing Your Own Survey Chapter 22 Further Opportunities for Social Research
