Exploring Racial/Ethnic Diversity, Education, Income, and Poverty using U.S. Census Data in Introduction to Sociology

• In Event: 573 - Regular Session. Teaching Sociology

Abstract

This paper describes a 3-stage project in which Introduction to Sociology students explore using U.S. Census Bureau data levels of racial/ethnic diversity, education, income, and poverty in their social contexts. The stages of the project consist of (1) creating hypotheses and explanations, (2) choosing measurements using a self-reflective process, and (3) collecting data, using the data to evaluate hypotheses, and assessing the validity of measurements. Approximately 1,250 students have completed this project in 37 sections of Introduction of Sociology taught between 2003 and 2015. Their experiences and implications for teaching Introduction to Sociology are discussed.

Author

• Carol A. Caronna, Towson University