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

Attendance at sessions is mandatory. Assessment of learning will focus on active participation during the sessions (students must attend at least 8 out of 10 classes).

Evaluation will be based on:

• Participation in lessons and exercises (20% of the final grade)
• In-class presentation (20%)
• Final report (60%)

Teaching tools

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

Office hours

See the website of Rossella Bozzon