88036 - LABORATORIO METODOLOGICO DI RICERCA SOCIALE (A)

Learning outcomes

At the end of the laboratory, the student will have acquired basic knowledge to define a concept, identify its dimensions, and operationalize it. Furthermore, they will understand how to use an international database to design simple comparative research frameworks. They will also grasp the importance of distinguishing between statistical explanation and correlation.

Course contents

The laboratory introduces students to the logic of social research, with particular emphasis on the process that leads from conceptual definition to empirical measurement. Topics covered include:

• Formulating a research question
• Identifying the dimensions of a concept
• Operationalizing the concept into observable indicators
• Using aggregated data from official sources (ISTAT, Eurostat, World Bank)
• Designing simple comparative research frameworks
• Reading and interpreting statistical tables
• Selecting and visually representing indicators
• Critically reflecting on observed statistical correlations and explanatory relationships

Let me know if you'd like to adapt this for a course description or promotional material—I can help make it even more engaging or formal, depending on your goals.

Readings/Bibliography

No mandatory reading is required. However, for students who are not familiar with the basic concepts of social research, the following readings are recommended:

Corbetta, Piergiorgio. Metodologia e tecniche della ricerca sociale. Bologna: il Mulino, 2014.

or

Lucchini, Mario. Metodologia della ricerca sociale. Pearson Italia, 2018.

Teaching methods

- Introductory lectures
- Practical exercises in small groups
- Guided analysis of data and indicators
- Collective discussion of the results

Assessment methods

Attendance in the laboratory is mandatory. To certify students' participation in the lessons, the instructor will collect signatures from those present at each session.
Students must attend at least 70% of the classes to be eligible.
The laboratory does not assign a final grade. At the end of the course, students may be granted eligibility.
Assessment of preparation and skills acquired during laboratory activities will be conducted through a written evaluation and an in-class presentation.

Teaching tools

The slides and supplementary readings will be available in electronic format on the Virtual Platform.

Office hours

See the website of Rossella Bozzon