This assignment relates to Program Objectives #2 & #7, and Course Objectives a & d
Secondary Research Rubric(Attached)
Secondary data refers to information that has been collected by someone else for a purpose other than the one currently at hand. In other words, it’s data that was previously gathered for another research study, project, or purpose. This type of data is not collected firsthand by the researcher or organization using it, but rather sourced from existing databases, publications, research reports, or other sources.
Secondary data can include a wide range of sources such as government publications, industry reports, academic journals, market research reports, census data, and more. Researchers and businesses often use secondary data because it can be more convenient, cost-effective, and time-saving compared to collecting primary data. However, it’s important to critically evaluate the quality, relevance, and reliability of secondary data sources before using them for analysis or decision-making.
Objective: Utilizing the U.S. Bureau of the Census’s most recent edition of Census Tracts, this assignment aims to provide a comparative analysis of selected tracts within [Chosen Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA)]. Select and compare two tracts that will provide noticeable contrasts in areas such as geographical information, ethnic make-up, age breakdowns, industries employing residents, education levels, income, etc.
Instructions:
Select Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA):
Choose an MSA of interest for analysis. Ensure that sufficient data is available for the selected MSA.
Select Census Tracts:
Identify two Census tracts within the chosen MSA that offer noticeable contrasts in areas of interest. Consider factors such as geographical information, ethnic make-up, age breakdowns, industries employing residents, education levels, income, or any other relevant factors.
Data Collection:
Gather demographic and socio-economic data for the chosen MSA and the selected tracts from the U.S. Bureau of the Census’s most recent edition of Census Tracts.
Analysis and Comparison:
Analyze and compare the data collected for the MSA and the selected tracts. Use appropriate statistical and graphical methods to present the findings.
Report Composition:
Prepare a report comparing the two selected tracts with the overall MSA for each area studied (e.g., demographic composition, socio-economic indicators). Include textual descriptions of the findings along with graphical evidence (charts, graphs, maps) to support the analysis.
Report Structure:
Title Page
Introduction: 5 pts
Provide an overview of the selected MSA and the rationale for choosing it. Briefly introduce the selected tracts and the areas of contrast.
Demographic Analysis: 10 pts
Compare the population characteristics (ethnicity, age distribution, etc.) of the MSA with those of the selected tracts. Present the findings using appropriate graphical representations.
Socio-economic Analysis: 10 pts
Contrast socio-economic indicators such as income levels, educational attainment, and employment sectors between the MSA and the selected tracts. Utilize charts and graphs to illustrate the differences.
Geographical Analysis: 10 pts
Examine geographical features and distribution patterns within the MSA and the selected tracts. Use maps and spatial visualizations to highlight notable differences.
Conclusion: 10 pts
Summarize the key findings of the comparative analysis and discuss the implications of the contrasts observed. Suggest areas for further research or policy considerations based on the findings.
References: 5
Include an APA formatted reference page, citing academic sources, industry reports, and any relevant literature that formed your analysis.
10 points may be deducted if the assignment is not up to MBA standards.
Additional Guidelines:
Prepare a comprehensive report adhering to the provided structure and addressing all the required components.
Include properly labeled graphical illustrations to support the analysis.
Submit the report in a digital format as per the instructor’s instructions.
Note: Students are encouraged to explore additional data sources and methodologies to enhance the depth and accuracy of their analysis.
