Statistical analysis
Dr P L Gardner
First semester * Clayton
This subject sets out to help students develop a systematic understanding of statistical concepts. Competence at secondary school algebra is assumed. The subject provides background in quantitative educational research but is also suitable for students in the health, behavioural and environmental sciences; it is available as a subject towards the MEnvSc degree. The aims are to explore the two major functions of statistics - to summarise the quantitative properties of sets of data (descriptive statistics) and to serve as a research tool linking theoretical concepts and hypotheses to conclusions, interpretations and decisions (inferential statistics); to emphasise the logical and mathematical principles underlying the use of statistical techniques; to enable students to read statistical material intelligently and critically, to determine whether a particular statistical test is appropriate in a given situation and to design their own research techniques in such a way as to avoid common errors of analysis.
Assessment
Assignments and three open-book tests (two to be done at home)
Prescribed texts
Runyon R P and Haber A Fundamentals of behavioral statistics 7th edn, Addison-Wesley, 1991
Recommended texts
Runyon R P and others Student workbook to accompany `Fundamentals of behavioral statistics' Addison-Wesley