Intro: Datasets and Working with Data

This module covers the basics of working with datasets. Datasets are simply a way of organizing information in order to answer empirical questions. They are typically organized in rows and columns, where the rows correspond to observations and the columns correspond to variables. This video also discusses two other key concepts related to the analysis of data, which is the unit of analysis and the unit of observation.

In this module, we will cover each of these concepts in more depth but will not shy away from seeing how these ideas apply to real datasets. We will also see how researchers code variables and organize their data in something called a codebook. As usual, we strongly encourage you to strengthen your understanding of these core concepts by taking the practice quiz questions made available and to consult the external resources we have provided at the end of this module.

Module Learning Outcomes

After completing this module, you will be able to...

1. Define what a dataset is and how datasets are organized

2. Identify what a codebook is and how to use one

3. Understand conceptually and substantively the differences between a unit of analysis and unit of observation.