Title: Analyzing Survey Data and Preparing for Upcoming Assignments
**Synopsis:**
In today’s session, the class focused on analyzing raw survey data that students have collected. The lesson aimed to equip students with the tools and methods necessary for interpreting their survey results, which would reinforce their upcoming essays with empirical evidence. The class also discussed aspects of efficiently managing deadlines for current and future assignments.
**Attendance:**
– No students were explicitly mentioned as absent.
**Topics Covered:**
1. **Introduction & Survey Submission Status**
– The instructor began by enquiring about the number of responses students had received for their surveys, aiming for a minimum of 15.
2. **Discussion on Essay Deadlines**
– Clarification on deadlines post-graduation was provided to ensure students were aware and could manage their time effectively.
3. **Midterm Feedback and Grading Options**
– The teacher offered options for receiving midterm grades with or without detailed commentary, responding to students’ varying preferences on feedback.
4. **Survey Data Analysis Instruction**
– Utilization of Google Sheets and Filters: Detailed instructions were given on how to manipulate survey data (e.g., sorting by demographics, analyzing health impact).
– Analysis Techniques: Discussion on statistical relevance, identifying trends, patterns, and unusual data points (outliers) within their survey results.
5. **Objective and Importance of Survey Assignment**
– The session underscored the significance of using primary data sources, empowering students to support their arguments with tangible evidence in their essays.
6. **Practical Application and Interactive Session**
– The instructor led a practical application using sample data in Google Sheets to illustrate how students should analyze and interpret their own survey data.
7. **Addressing Potential Survey Issues**
– Acknowledged potential bias due to the small and possibly non-diverse sample sizes, and discussed how to acknowledge these limitations in their analysis.
**Actionable Items:**
– **Grading Updates:**
– Ensure midterm grades are updated tonight for students opting out of detailed commentary.
– **Technical Troubleshoots:**
– Verify that course materials and links (like Google Sheets) are properly uploaded and accessible on eCourse.
**Homework:**
1. **Survey Report Completion:**
– By next Friday, students must analyze their survey results and complete a report answering the following:
– Percentage of respondents affected by the problem surveyed.
– Percentage supporting the proposed solution.
– Identification of compelling statistics or connections in the survey data, explaining possible reasons.
– Noting any unexpected responses and hypothesizing why they might have occurred.
– Instructions and a template will be posted on eCourse.
2. **Feedback Mechanism:**
– Students who face difficulties in obtaining sufficient survey responses should inform the instructor to discuss alternative strategies.
This class effectively bridged theoretical knowledge with practical data analysis skills, setting a strong foundation for students to support their academic arguments with empirical data.