Peer Review

Social Science Data Analysis Network

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Reviewed:: May 4, 2019 by Sociology

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Ratings

Overall Rating:

Content Quality:

Effectiveness:

Ease of Use:

Overview:

The Social Science Data Analysis Network (SSDAN), based at the Population Studies Center at the University of Michigan, is an organization that creates demographic media (such as user guides, web sites, and hands-on classroom computer materials) that make U.S. census data accessible to policymakers, educators, the media, and informed citizens. SSDAN is directed by demographer William H. Frey.

Most sociologists will be interested in DataCounts! which is an interactive website designed to help integrate social statistics into the classroom setting. Datasets include: American Community Survey data through 2016, the 2000 census, trend data from the 1950 census through recent American Community Survey cycles, the General Social Survey, and the Current Population Survey. DataCounts! also houses a collection of teaching modules that have been created by educators who integrate social science data into their courses.

Type of Material:

Collection.

Recommended Uses:

Probably best used as homework for individuals or small groups; there is also the possibility of in-class use. Provides Powerpoint presentations for introducing and discussing the material to be analyzed.

Technical Requirements:

Each collection contains a wide variety of datasets that can be viewed online with WebCHIP which is a self-contained program available on this website.

Identify Major Learning Goals:

SSDAN houses over 70 modules aimed at social science research topics -- stucture of cities, education, housing patterns, inequality, aging, immigration, and so on. These modules have been developed by respected researchers in the field of sociology. The modules are very detailed including learning objectives. Using data from a variety of sources students can explore ideas about U.S. society using real data.

Target Student Population:

College General Ed, College Lower Division, College Upper Division, Graduate School.

Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:

Basic knowledge of research methods and cross-tabulations.

Content Quality

Rating:
Strengths:: The modules are very thorough and thought provoking. The ability to tap into several social science datasets from one location allows educators to use the modules on the site or to create their own materials. Sometimes students express an interest in a topic -- teen pregnancy is increasing -- and it is nice to help students to explore their questions using data. If someone is using just-in-time-teaching pedagogy, it would be easy to run simple analysis during class as topics are discussed.
Concerns:: Some knowledge of statistics would be needed - which may be difficult for entry level students.

Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool

Rating:
Strengths:: Engaging students in their own analysis of the data can be a very powerful teaching tool. It can be very satisfying for students to answer their own questions. Once introduced to the workings of SSDAN, many students will continue to explore further.
Concerns:: Some students have an aversion to numbers. There may be a learning curve in understanding the abbreviations in the DataCounts! databases -- a variable glossary is supplied.

Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty

Rating:
Strengths:: It could only be easier if someone came and did it for you! Very good coverage and everything you need right at your fingertips!
Concerns:: Limited to questions that can be answered using the databases available.

Other Issues and Comments:: It would be nice if the glossary of variables would list the definitions, instead of having to click for the definition.
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