The course provides a comprehensive overview about research in inequality and research methods applied. Students will acquire skills to critically assess and discuss research articles in this domain, design and carry out empirical analyses using the statistical software R, and receive an introduction into survey methodology.

The course consists of four blocks:

1. Introduction
2. Introduction to programming with R
3. Survey Methodology
4. Topics in Inequality Research

After block 3, there will be an essay exam where students will critically assess a proposed research design and come up with suggestions how to improve it.

• A good command of using the statistical software R to perform empirical analyses using survey data

• A good understanding of the advantage and disadvantages of survey data for research purposes

• A good understanding of current lines of research in the domain of inequality

• The ability to understand research articles and critically assess research designs and results

(Virtual) Attendance strictly required

This course is designed as a virtual class. You can be present occasionally, but participation without physical presence is also possible (due to COVID-19). However, it is required to have a stable and reliable internet connection during all sessions. 

The course mixes lectures, practical sessions where students work with survey data, and statistical software packages, as well as virtual student presentations.

R Exercises (30%) 

Student presentation (25%) 

Quizzes (35 %) 

Active participation in discussions (10%)

Enrollment is based on the usual ‘first come – first serve’ principle. If you are registered but not able to participate, de-register via LPIS during the registration period so your place is available to students on the waiting list.

 franziska.disslbacher@wu.ac.at; sofie.waltl@wu.ac.at

Students are required to bring their own laptop (with R or R Studio installed) to all lectures; students can rent a notebook at the Library and Learning Center.  

Deadlines are strict; no extensions will be granted.