1. Units of Analysis, Maps, and Scale Dr. Roy Cole SS300 Research Methods

2. The unit of analysis The unit on which data are collected. The “what” or “whom” that is being studied. The unit on which a conclusion is to be made. The UOA may be disaggregated or aggregated. The unit of analysis may be different from the unit of observation.

3. The unit of analysis Individuals. Groups. Artifacts (books, photos, newspapers) Geographical units (town, census tract, state). Social interactions (dyadic relations, divorces, arrests).

4. Types of scale Large-scale maps. Representation “closer” to the ground. Houses, fields, etc. can be depicted. 1:250,000 and below is large scale. Four miles to the inch. City maps, real estate (cadastral) maps, construction maps.

5. Types of scale Medium scale maps. Road maps, airway maps. 1:250,000 to 1:1,000,000. 4 to 16 miles per inch.

6. Types of scale Small scale maps. Above 1:1,000,000. Used in atlases, books, and magazines.