Quantitative Methods (SOAN*3120)

Code and section: SOAN*3120*01

Term: Winter 2026

Instructor: Andrew Nevin

Details

SOAN*3120: QUANTITATIVE METHODS

University of Guelph
Department of Sociology and Anthropology
Winter 2026
Section 01: Monday/Wednesday 3:30-4:20pm, Location TBD
Instructor: Dr. Andrew D. Nevin | anevin@uoguelph.ca

SOAN*3120 is a 0.50-credit course that introduces students to methods of analyzing quantitative (numerical) data that are used by sociologists, criminologists, and anthropologists. We will begin with foundational topics such as research questions, operationalizing variables, and levels of measurement. We will then explore common statistical techniques used in empirical quantitative research, including descriptive statistics, hypothesis testing, and measures of association for bivariate and multivariable relationships. Although statistics are based on mathematical calculations, students do not require advanced mathematical knowledge to succeed in this course. Instead, we will prioritize gaining an understanding of when, why, and how to use various analytic techniques, as well as how to interpret their results. Students will also acquire skills using SPSS, a software program, to analyze social data. This course provides students with as range of practical skills and will prepare them to critically read research literature and to take more advanced statistics courses.
This course has several learning outcomes. By the end of the semester, students will be able to:
• Demonstrate knowledge of core concepts related to quantitative data collection and analysis
• Conduct basic statistical analyses for both descriptive and inferential problems, and accurately and meaningfully interpret the results
• Develop hands-on skills for analyzing social data with SPSS software
• Apply appropriate statistical techniques to investigate research questions that address contemporary, historical, social, and global issues (and foster intellectual curiosity)
• Critically evaluate existing quantitative research found in the social sciences literature
• Cultivate skills for effective analytical thinking, problem-solving, and time management
This course involves in-person lectures (Monday/Wednesday) that will focus on explaining the general principles and fundamental procedures of quantitative data analyses. Students will also attend weekly seminars in smaller groups led by teaching assistants who will provide additional instruction and support for learning SPSS to enable the completion of written assignments.
Course readings are TBD but will be made available to students on CourseLink. Students can also purchase a recommended (but not required) textbook to supplement the lectures: Salkind & Frey “Statistics for People Who (Think They) Hate Statistics.” (2020; 7th ed).
Students’ grades will be determined based on a combination of a midterm exam, final exam, seminar engagement, homework assignments, and statistics exercise assignments that require the use of SPSS. The midterm and final exam will be in-person and will include multiple-choice and written response questions. The cumulative final exam will be scheduled during the April exam period and will allow students to create and refer to a “cheat-sheet” containing a limited subset of materials.
Please note that this draft outline is for informational purposes only and a complete course syllabus will be provided via CourseLink on the first day of classes. The weekly topics and assessment structure are subject to change prior to finalizing the syllabus in January.