1. QUANTIFYING DATA
Quantitative analysis requires researchers code their data.
Codes makes it possible to store data in computers.
Computers are critical in social research -- allows researchers to process and analyze large data sets.

2. Non numerical answers that derive from open ended questionnaires must be coded before analysis.
Coding scheme makes it possible to compare your results with those of other studies.

3. Coding scheme should reflect your theoretical concepts.
Always code your data in greater detail than you plan to use in your analysis.

4. DEVELOPING CODE CATEGORIES
Use existing coding scheme. If none is available, develop one.
Choice of codes should reflect your research purpose.
Code categories should be exhaustive and mutually exclusive

5. CODE CONSTRUCTION
Codebook -- describes the location of variables and presents codes to the attributes composing those variables.
Functions of a code book
a) Guide in the coding process
b) helps in locating variables and interpreting codes during analysis.

6. Every code-book should contain the full definition of the variables.
The codebook also indicates the attributes composing each variable.
Each attribute should have a numeric label. Eg. 1. strongly agree 2. agree 3. Neutral etc.

7. EXERCISE
On a clean piece of paper, answer the following question and hand it to me.
What is the major problem(s) facing WKU today?

8. Codebook Information Identification # Sex 1. Male 2. Female
Age in completed years
Class Standing
1. Freshman 2. Sophomore
3. Junior 4. Senior 5. Transfer ID
Age
Class
1-3 4
5-6 7
Description
Variable
Columns

9. Remember these questions????
How many courses have you taken in sociology prior to the present semester?
How many siblings do you have?
What is your academic standing?
What is your age?
What is your gender?