Using Census Data to Join Community Engagement and Project-Based Learning

Session Submission Type: TLC Workshop

Session Description

The workshop provides a sample syllabus, and hands-on activity to include gaining access to census data, searching at the tract level, and varied visual presentations of data. As an example, we have students investigate residential segregation in their own familiar geography. Students learn valuable research skills. They find, consider, verify, and present the facts.

This workshop shows one way professors can structure a class to actively investigate a social, political and economic phenomena in any locale in the United States. We use the search of Census data in our “Policy Research” course which involves both graduates and undergraduates, a volunteer team of facilitators – and lots of time looking a census data. This project-based learning removes the preaching, and improves the reaching—letting students investigate, evaluate patterns, and present data visually. Participants in this workshop:

• Review a sample syllabus
• Consider the mix of classroom activities and assignments
• Sign into the US Census website and learn how to navigate it
• Identify tract-level data
• Review options for data visualization

This is a group session with the active involvement of the workshop audience. Laptop and WiFi connection required.

Sub Unit

• TLC at APSA

Chair

• Peter J. Woolley Fairleigh Dickinson University

Presenter

• Kathryn A. Foster The College of New Jersey