WEEK 5
Media Use of Statistics (graded)
Look for, or brainstorm for a few examples of the use of statistics by the media. For example, advertising on the Internet and in newspapers, magazines, television, and radio. These statistics should all relate to some aspect of criminal justice. How many examples showing the use of the statistics by the media can you find? Provide at least three examples and summarize them. Your examples should be specific and detailed. If your example comes from a newspaper or magazine article, provide the source.
Media Distortion (graded)
Are statistics likely to confuse people or distort information? Provide at least two specific examples where the media used statistics where you believe that the information was confusing and distorted. What information do think should have been provided? If your example comes from a newspaper or magazine article, provide the source.
WEEK 6
Ethnographic Field Research (graded)
Come up with what you believe to be an interesting crime and justice ethnography based on whatever field of criminal justice that most interests you. You can use an idea that takes advantage of your existing contacts or one that would require you to make new contacts. Identify two or three issues that you believe would be interesting to study given this ethnography.
How would you gain entry into the field site?
Ethnographic Field Research Difficulties (graded)
What difficulties might you encounter in gaining the trust and cooperation of your research subjects? What effect(s) would that possibly have on your research?