North Central Sociological Association 2020 John F. Schnabel Lecture Missed Opportunities: Developing Undergraduate Students Sociological Research Skills Throughout the Curriculum

Abstract

ABSTRACT Undergraduate sociology students need more opportunities to develop their research skills while earning their degree. However, a common reaction to this assertion is that there simply is not enough time to provide students with hands-on experience doing sociology while also ensuring that “all the material” is covered in elective courses. Therefore, much of the burden of helping students develop their sociological research skills occurs in isolated methods and statistical courses. Students then reach their senior year with underdeveloped sociological research skills and lack the confidence to conduct a research project with data collection. I encountered this challenge when I began teaching our Senior Seminar course. When I turned to the literature for insight, I quickly realized that my experience was not unique nor new. In this address, I describe the challenge I faced and the scholarship I have undertaken to illuminate where challenges lie and the missed opportunities for methods instruction and practice throughout the undergraduate sociology curriculum. Helping students develop their sociological research skills is just as important as helping students develop a sociological perspective.