The strength of a state and the future development of strength are measurable in a number of ways. The Florida Pulse has developed specific research procedures that will result in empirical observations representing those concepts in the real world.
Research Hypothesis
If an issue has a high degree of salience, then this issue is an indicator of state strength that will translate on both the state and the federal level.
Conceptualizing State Strength
To begin our study, we first devised four concepts state strength that would be prominent specifically to the state of Florida: economics, cultural diversity, education, and military presence. We then created a list of indicators that could reflect each concept.
Methodology
Our method is largely based on quantitative analysis. Having compiled a list of 12 indicators of strength we felt uniquely represented Florida, we administered a survey to 103 UWF undergraduates and asked each respondent to rank the indicators according to their perception of what makes Florida strong. After analyzing the results of the survey we chose the top indicators for individual study.
Group Work
Ayla, Team Leader: UWF Survey, Military Presence, Population, and Congressional Connection
Marshall, Deputy Leader: Education
Genna, Research & Development: Coastal Ports
Harrison, Technology: Tourism, Sports & Recreation
The Group communicated via email and text messages frequently throughout the semester. We utilized Google Drive to share research and documents. Prior to each presentation, the group accessed and analyzed the Memos and the PowerPoint Slide Deck.
Road Map
The research begins with an analysis of the UWF Survey. Following the Survey is an examination of state Population demography. Next, we take a unique approach to measure the strength of Military Presence in a state. The research continues with the study of State University Systems (we modified this indicator from the survey results; the survey asked respondents to rank Education on the K-12 level). Then we analyze the strengths in Tourism and Recreation which is followed by an analysis of Ports Systems within each state. To bind this research, we observe not only the behaviors of Congressional Members but also, how the surveyed indicators of strength translate to the Federal level. Finally, we present our findings in a table that will rank each state by our measurements.
Earl Babbie, The Practice of Social Research, 7th Edition. (Belmont: CA: Wadsworth, 1995), p. 132.
