L316 is the junior seminar required for the Liberal Arts and
Management Program.  L316 provides an introduction to the statistical
theories and techniques used in social research.  This course will
not focus on abstract mathematical principles, but rather demonstrate
how statistical methods can be used to study social phenomena.  More
specifically, we will learn how to use statistics to study labor
market processes, such as gender and race differences in labor market
experiences, the relationship between social structure and attitudes
towards work, and the effectiveness of work-related policies. Many
students are intimidated by statistics, particularly if they have
avoided advanced math and science courses.  I firmly believe,
however, that statistics does not have to be scary.  The best way to
learn statistics is to do statistics.  Therefore, in this class you
will be required to understand some introductory statistical
equations and calculate some numerical computations, by hand and on
the computer, but the concentration in every class will be on
understanding what we’re doing and not on coming up with the right
number. Tentatively, grades will be based on homework assignments,
writing assignments and exams.  Students should bring a calculator to
every class.