Social Science Approaches to the Study of Chinese Society Part 1

Module 1: What is social science?

Explore the nature and scientific foundations of social science, gaining insight into its origins, evolution, and differentiation from other disciplines. The module provides an overview of the major social science disciplines and their methodologies, setting the stage for an in-depth understanding of the subject matter.

Module 2: The Big Questions

Delve into the significant inquiries within the realm of social science, including topics such as inequality, family, social context, political and social change, and divergence. This module offers a thought-provoking exploration of the major societal issues that drive contemporary social science research.

Module 3: Social Science Research on China

Focus on social science research specific to Chinese society, examining notable changes, continuity, family dynamics, population aging, migration, and the impact on education, health, and wellbeing. Gain a comprehensive understanding of the key social dynamics and challenges unique to China.

Module 4: The Social Science Disciplines

Examine the primary social science disciplines, including sociology, political science, economics, anthropology, and other related fields. Gain insight into the methodologies and approaches employed within each discipline, providing a holistic understanding of the diverse aspects of social science research.

Module 5: Study Designs

Explore different study designs, encompassing experimental, observational, cross-sectional, and longitudinal studies, as well as qualitative and quantitative approaches. Gain an understanding of macro and micro studies, providing a comprehensive overview of the methodologies used in social science research.

Module 6: Challenges

Examine the challenges encountered in social science research, including issues related to representativeness, selection bias, omitted variables, reverse causality, the ecological fallacy, and the validity of measures. Gain insights into the complexities of drawing conclusions in social science research.

Module 7: Cause and Effect

Focus on understanding cause and effect in social science research, exploring experimental designs, cause and effect in observational studies, control variables, natural/quasi experiments, instrumental variables, and matching approaches. Gain a comprehensive understanding of establishing causal relationships in social science research.

Module 8: Final Exam

Conclude the course with a comprehensive final exam, ensuring that learners have assimilated the knowledge and concepts presented throughout the modules. The exam serves as a comprehensive assessment of the critical insights and understanding gained from the course.