Social Science Practices
Participating in ISS has taught me how to scientifically assess social inequality accurately. Of the social science practices I have honed, the three most important for developing global citizenship were mixed methods research, graphic presentation of data, and proper research ethics.
Learning how to conduct research started with understanding the distinct strengths of qualitative versus quantitative analysis. Prior to ISS, I thought only qualitative analysis was applicable to social science research. The Survey of Social Science Research Methods course demonstrated that quantitative analysis serves a purpose in the social sciences.Moreover, I learned there is strength in mixing research techniques.Combining both qualitative and quantitative approaches allows for a greater breadth of analytical tools that can lead to a more complete understanding of an issue. While researching socio-economic inequality for my paper on Bangladesh, I included both qualitative and quantitative data. The quantitative data analysis established a causal relationship between variables while qualitative analysis provided global context. Completing mixed methods research helped me understand the real implications of public policy for quality of life in developing countries.
ISS’s online platform has taught me to appreciate the power of visual presentation.The most nuanced discussion and inquiry from my peers was inspired by research I accompanied with visuals. For one project, I generated an interactive map on Tableau of income inequality that could be manipulated by users. The interactive component allowed audiences to experience data from multiple angles and ultimately form a more comprehensive understanding of the research. Likewise, graphic presentations of data have helped me relate inequality in my city to global trends of homelessness. Visuals enriched both my research and my ability to interact with my peers by provoking more probing examination of global inequality.
Foundational to all my work in ISS is a growing knowledge of what constitutes ethical research. Research ethics are always evolving as it is difficult to conduct social science research that is both ethical and accurate. One of the challenges I had researching socio-economic inequality was studies operationalized disparate definitions and measurements of social well-being. In order to maintain the legitimacy of my research, I made every effort to acknowledge the nuances between studies and properly cite each resource. Observing ethical research methods is fundamental to conscientious citizenship because research ethics provide integrity and the ability to replicate results.
Learning how to conduct research started with understanding the distinct strengths of qualitative versus quantitative analysis. Prior to ISS, I thought only qualitative analysis was applicable to social science research. The Survey of Social Science Research Methods course demonstrated that quantitative analysis serves a purpose in the social sciences.Moreover, I learned there is strength in mixing research techniques.Combining both qualitative and quantitative approaches allows for a greater breadth of analytical tools that can lead to a more complete understanding of an issue. While researching socio-economic inequality for my paper on Bangladesh, I included both qualitative and quantitative data. The quantitative data analysis established a causal relationship between variables while qualitative analysis provided global context. Completing mixed methods research helped me understand the real implications of public policy for quality of life in developing countries.
ISS’s online platform has taught me to appreciate the power of visual presentation.The most nuanced discussion and inquiry from my peers was inspired by research I accompanied with visuals. For one project, I generated an interactive map on Tableau of income inequality that could be manipulated by users. The interactive component allowed audiences to experience data from multiple angles and ultimately form a more comprehensive understanding of the research. Likewise, graphic presentations of data have helped me relate inequality in my city to global trends of homelessness. Visuals enriched both my research and my ability to interact with my peers by provoking more probing examination of global inequality.
Foundational to all my work in ISS is a growing knowledge of what constitutes ethical research. Research ethics are always evolving as it is difficult to conduct social science research that is both ethical and accurate. One of the challenges I had researching socio-economic inequality was studies operationalized disparate definitions and measurements of social well-being. In order to maintain the legitimacy of my research, I made every effort to acknowledge the nuances between studies and properly cite each resource. Observing ethical research methods is fundamental to conscientious citizenship because research ethics provide integrity and the ability to replicate results.