Course Catalogue

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The course will give students a basic introduction to the history and science of polling and will immediately ask them to put that to use by helping to write and publicise the annual John Smith Centre's UK Youth Poll. In so doing, students taking this course will learn a variety of practical political skills - from understanding poll design, to writing press releases, to engaging with politicians and the media.

1-hour lecture, 2-hour seminar (2 groups) for 12 weeks

Optional teaching events: 1.5-hour drop-in and supported group-work session for 12 weeks

Entry to MA Social Science Honours

None

■ Essay focusing on the history, methods, or social and political implications of polling in the United Kingdom. 2000 words (40%), due in Week 6.

■ Group project evaluating the survey questions proposed for the UK Youth Poll. Students will each lead on one section of the report and review the other sections. Marks are awarded on a group, rather than individual basis but students who do not contribute to the report may have a differentiated mark. 1,500 - 2,000 words (30%), due in Week 10.

■ Blog post analysing quantitative or qualitative data from the UK Youth Poll. 750 words (30%), due in Week 12.

The aim of this course is twofold: firstly, to gain understanding of the important role that polling plays in our political culture by both reflecting and shaping public opinion; and secondly to give students a genuinely practical political experience, leading on the delivery of a high-profile piece of polling research. The John Smith Centre hopes that, by taking part, students will gain the confidence and skills to go on to be more active participants in politics and public life. Students will gain valuable experience both of how public research is conducted and how to use it to impact the news cycle.

By the end of this course students will be able to: 

■ Demonstrate a critical understanding of the polling industry, its history, and the role of polls in politics

■ Demonstrate understanding of the technical aspects of conducting a poll, including survey design, sampling and statistical analysis

■ Analyse qualitative and quantitative data, including in conjunction with each other

■ Manage a polling project including dissemination of quantitative and qualitative results

■ Explain, present and write about the results of the UK Youth Poll in a manner that is accessible to a public audience