Course Synopsis:
This seminar uses quantitative sources and methods to explore historical aspects of demographic experience and social inequality. It examines the value of such data for policy purposes and understanding social and cultural contexts. Students acquire skills for employment and graduate school by improving their capacity for quantitative description and analysis. During the first half of the semester we survey the historical experience of demographic change, review simple statistical concepts, and acquire direct ‘hands-on’ experience with databases. In the second half of the semester, students develop and report on independent research projects using quantitative evidence.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of this course, student will have acquired:
- knowledge of demographic experience and social inequality
- critical appreciation of the role of quantitative evidence
- ability to communicate using both quantitative and qualitative evidence
- capacity for independent research
- understanding of quantitative methods
Prerequisites:
10.00 credits including HIST*2450, and at least 1.00 credits in History at the 3000 level or above.
Method of Evaluation and Weights:
Newspaper article commentaries - 05%
Database creation, report & analysis - 20%
Test - 10%
Presentation of research proposals - 05%
Independent research presentation - 10%
Independent research essay - 40%
Discussion (inc feedback on student presentations) - 10%
Required Texts:
Pat Hudson and Mina Ishizu, History By Numbers: An Introduction to Quantitative Approaches (London: Bloomsbury, 2007) (Textbook - other editions are acceptable. A paper copy is on Library reserve 3 day loan.)
Massimo Livi-Bacci, A Concise History of World Population (Wiley-Blackwell, 5th edition 2012) (Textbook - other editions are acceptable. A digital copy and also a paper copy is available through the UG Library)
*Please note: This is a preliminary web course description only. The department reserves the right to change without notice any information in this description. The final, binding course outline will be distributed in the first class of the semester.
**Please login to WebAdvisor, once the course schedule goes live, for instructor and room information.