B0087 - LEGGERE I DATI E REDIGERE REPORT

Learning outcomes

The laboratory, through a highly practical learning-by-doing approach, aims to improve students’ ability to read and interpret data from both quantitative and qualitative studies, and to use such information to produce written outputs in both academic and popular formats. By the end of the laboratory, students will be able to: clearly communicate the results of organizational and/or statistical analyses; and write a structured text (such as research reports, essays, or theses) using appropriate language.

Course contents

The laboratory is structured into four thematic areas that guide students in the analysis and use of different types of data (quantitative, qualitative, bibliographic), with the aim of developing practical skills in writing texts based on empirical evidence.

The topics covered will include:

Reading and interpreting quantitative data

• Types of variables
• Tables and charts
• Basic indicators and their meaning

Reading and interpreting qualitative data

• Observations and interviews
• How to summarize and represent content
• Examples of qualitative analysis

Organizing and using bibliographic sources

• How to search for and select sources
• How to build a short literature review

Writing with data

• Structure of a report or short paper
• Clear and appropriate language
• Differences between academic and popular writing

Practical exercises

• Analysis of texts and data
• Production of short written texts
• Presentation and discussion of the work

Readings/Bibliography

Corbetta P. (2014), Metodologia e tecniche della ricerca sociale, Bologna, Il Mulino.

Additional teaching materials covered during the lessons will be made available on the virtual platform virtuale.unibo.it.

Teaching methods

- Practical exercises in class and at home
- Analysis of texts and data from published research
- Production and revision of short written texts
- Individual or small group presentations
- Peer and instructor feedback

Assessment methods

Attending Students

Attendance is mandatory (students are required to attend at least 8 out of 10 classes).

Assessment will be based on:

• active participation in classes and practical activities (20%);
• in-class presentation (20%);
• final written report (60%).

The final report must demonstrate the ability to read and interpret data, organize and use bibliographic sources, and produce a well-structured text using clear and appropriate language.

Non-attending Students

Non-attending students will be assessed through:

• an individual written assignment (80%);
• an oral examination (20%).

The written assignment will consist of a structured report of 3,000–4,000 words (excluding bibliography), designed to assess the ability to read and interpret data, use and organize bibliographic sources, and demonstrate proficiency in academic writing. The topic of the report must be agreed upon in advance with the instructor.

The oral examination will cover:

• discussion of the written assignment, including methodological choices and the writing process;
• knowledge of the laboratory contents and of the teaching materials shared on the virtuale.unibo.it platform;
• differences between academic and public-oriented writing.

Final Grade Scale

Analytical ability emerging only with the support of the instructor; overall correct expression → 18–19

Independent analytical ability; adequate command of analytical tools → 20–24

Ability to conduct critical analysis; solid command of terminology, tools, and specific techniques → 25–29

Ability to conduct critical analysis and make connections; full command of terminology, tools, and specific techniques, with strong skills in argumentation, interpretation, and self-reflection → 30–30 with honours

Teaching tools

Slides and supplementary readings will be available in electronic format on the Virtual platform.

Students with Specific Learning Disorders (SLD/DSA) or temporary or permanent disabilities are invited to contact the relevant University Office in a timely manner (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/it/per-studenti ). The Office will assess individual needs and propose appropriate accommodations.

Any approved accommodations must be communicated to the instructor at least 15 days prior to the examination date. The instructor will evaluate their suitability in relation to the course learning objectives and assessment requirements.

Office hours

See the website of Rossella Bozzon