COURSE DESCRIPTION:

During this course you will help to conduct an in-depth survey of the homeless population living in Johnson City. In preparation for this survey you will learn more about survey methodology and interviewing techniques. More importantly, you will learn about homelessness, including the causes, consequences, and community efforts regarding this population.

• Estimate the number of homeless persons in Johnson City and collect more specific information from these persons through face-to-face interviews.
• Summarize the relevant findings using descriptive statistics.
• Create a report of the findings that is suitable for use by any organization.

Student Objectives:

• Learn about survey methodology including questionnaire development and face-to-face interviewing techniques.
• Learn about the homeless population both in Johnson City and at large.
• Learn about the services available to the homeless and the needs that are not being met.
• Learn about relevant research pertaining to the homeless and other marginalized groups.
• Learn about statistical analysis of numerical data using SPSS.
• Learn about creating professional reports and presenting statistical information to interested community groups.

REQUIRED READINGS:

There will be some assigned readings throughout the course. These articles or book chapters will be placed on reserve at the library as they are assigned.

This consists of attending class and participating in class discussions. The following point system will be used: 5 points for attending regular class meetings, up to 10 points for participating each regular class meeting, and 50 points for participation on February 21^st.

The rest of your grade will be based on completion of assignments given throughout the semester. One assignment will be a reflection paper based on your experience of interviewing the homeless. Other assignments will consist of data entry, data analysis, report writing, and library work. Many of the assignments will be specific and individualized; however, every effort will be made to assign equally challenging tasks to all students. The exact value of each assignment will be determined later, but you can expect the assignments to make up approximately half of your grade.

Your grade will be based on the percentage of points you earn toward the total, which will be determined at the end of the semester. Each class meeting and assignment will contribute to your total points. You may ask about your accumulated points and current grade at any time during the semester.

Attendance is required and will be recorded.