Objectives: After completing this class, you will be able to:

• Assess the potential value of contemporary approaches to network and spatial analysis to critical topics in social scientific research
• Identify the nature and quality of data needed to use these research methods
• Evaluate the quality (validity and reliability) of the conclusions developed using these methods

Required Readings

Bernard, PP. 274-278 and 447-463 (materials on network analysis)

Liao, C., Brown, d., Fei, d., Long, X., Chen, D. & Che, S. (2018) Big data-enabled social sensing in spatial analysis: Potentials and pitfalls. Transactions in GIS 22:1351-1371. DOI: 10.1111/tgis.12483

Hung, L.S., Wang, C. & Yarnal, B. (2016) Vulnerability of families and households to natural hazards: A case study of storm surge flooding n Sarasota County, Florida. Applied Geography 76:184-197. DOI: 10.1016/j.apgeog.2016.09.021

Folch, D.C., Arribas-Bel, D., Koschinsky, J. & Spielman, S.E. (2016) Spatial variation in the quality of American Community Survey estimates. Demography 53:535-1554. DOI 10.1007/s13524-016-0499-1

Our guest speaker this week is Megan Donovan. Her work in Interdisciplinary Ecology focuses on relationships between environment and agriculture, with a focus on organic, protected systems of produciton and the use of critical natural resources, particularly water. She completed a M.S. degree at UF in our department. Her thesis research examined the effects of the environmental contamination that occurred in the Stephen Foster neightborhood in NW Gainesville (roughtly speaking north of 23 Ave. NW and between 13 St. NW and 6 St. NE). The area was eventually became a federal "Superfund Cleanup" site, which devastated much of the neighborhood economically and made many residents fearful of long-term health impacts. She then worked for an extended period of time in the Boston area largely working with nonprofit organizations that focus on housing needs. We are delighted to have Megan back with us for her degree in Interdisciplinary Ecology.""

Research Methods Review Articles

There are no required research methods reviews this week, but you may submit a review of any of the articles listed under Week 15 on the attached document if you so desire. These submissions will earn bonus points. Submit any reviews you make to the Week 15 discussion board. This will be your last opportunity to submit research reviews to earn bonus points. In case anyone needs it, here are the instructions for completing a review.