Polimetrics: A Stata Companion to Introduction to Political Science Research Methods - 1st Edition

Reviewed by Lindsay Benstead, Professor of Politics and Global Studies, Portland State University on 10/16/23

Comprehensiveness rating: 4 see less

This textbook is highly comprehensive from the point of view of presenting how to use STATA, beginning with how to open the program and manage files to advance topics that include analyzing panel data and survival analysis. It does not have a glossary or a list of definitions but it presents material in a way that explains the content in a straightforward way.

Content Accuracy rating: 5

The textbook presents fundamental and complex analysis in a way that is easy to understand.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 5

Since this book covers the use of STATA, it is likely to be relevant for a long time. Sometimes there will be new commands that are introduced by STATA, thus suggesting the need for revision. However, unlike commercial textbooks that are frequently updated with new editions, this textbook will likely not be updated as often, allowing the instructor to not need to update their course material on a regular basis.

Clarity rating: 5

This textbook explains complex topics in a clear way. It includes numerous screenshots from STATA with a clear presentation of the syntax used, making it an effective teaching/learning tool for students at all levels, from undergraduate to graduate students.

Consistency rating: 5

The chapters present different elements, such as explanations and exercise, in a consistent manner, making it easy for instructors to build a course around it.

Modularity rating: 5

No single section is more than a few pages. Each chapter and section is clearly named, making it possible for instructors to assign the right chapters, depending on the nature and level of the course. The more advanced topics/chapters will be more appropriate for advanced students, for example.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

This book is well organized, presenting material from basic to more advanced topics.

Interface rating: 5

The textbook includes numerous URLs. At the time of this review, they all work.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

The textbook is free from grammatical errors.

Cultural Relevance rating: 5

The book gives examples that include diverse individuals.

Comments

I have built a course around this textbook and look forward to getting feedback from students.