Becoming part of the dataset: Teaching quantitative research methods to social science students

This interview examines the value of embedding teaching about quantitative research methods within applied, meaningful learning experiences. Fiona Gogescu delves into Jackie Carter’s experience developing the innovative Data Fellows programme that encourages students to develop data and statistical literacy. She engages her in a discussion about the curriculum, experiential learning and work placement, building students’ confidence with numbers, and relating the content to real-world issues and students’ lives. For novice and experienced teachers, and for those who teach quantitative methods to students without a statistics background, this interview offers insights and practical strategies grounded in the social sciences tradition – how to strike a balance between teaching students to use quantitative methods rigorously and stimulating them to reflect critically about the assumptions built into these techniques.