Why Does Sociology Need Numbers?

Quantitative Methods in Education Research

In this course, Professor Stephen Gorard (Durham University) explores the use of numerical data in education research. In the first lecture, we think about why numbers are important in sociology and whether the distinction between qualitative and quantitative research is useful. In the second lecture, we look at comparing frequencies between groups. In the third lecture, we look at identifying differences between groups – with examples from education research. Next, we examine the concepts of correlation and causation by exploring the relationship between Free School Meal eligibility and attainment in school exams. In the fifth and final lecture, we put these different methods together to discuss more broadly the unfairness of life chances.

Why Does Sociology Need Numbers?

In this lecture, we think about the use of numbers in social research, focusing in particular on: (i) the importance of numerical data in identifying patterns of stratification and differentiation, both in education and in society more broadly; (ii) the distinction between qualitative and quantitative in social research, and whether this binary is helpful; (iii) some important factors to consider when evaluating the quality of research, whether “qualitative” or “quantitative”.