The Sociology Department is equipping a microcomputer laboratory that allows entry-level students to be introduced to quantitative analysis of sociological data. The equipment makes possible hands-on experience in analyzing existing survey data from the National Opinion Research Center (Illinois) and the Survey Research Center (Michigan), and allows students to do statistical analyses of data from their own research projects. The instrumentation expands the laboratory from eight computers, available for majors only, to a larger facility that allows all students to be exposed to : 1. in-class demonstrations of data manipulation and analysis; 2. assignments based on the anlaysis of survey data, and 3. assigned laboratory periods where students work under direct faculty supervision. The college will contribute an amount equal to the award.
