Dealing with Data – An Introduction to Statistics

 

Dealing with Data – An Introduction to Statistics can be studied as a stand-alone course, an optional course for the Certificate of Higher Education in Field Ecology and a core course for the Diploma in Field and Conservation Ecology at Aberystwyth University. It is also a pre-requisite for the module XS20330 Field and Conservation Ecology Project.

Key Facts

 

Language: English

Duration: 10 Weeks

Number of Credits: 10

Tutor: Nicola Simkiss 

Learning Method: Online

Level: This module is at CQFW Level 4

Module Code: XS11610

Fee: £130.00 - Fee Waiver Scheme available

Register your Interest for this course

 

Overview

This module will introduce students to descriptive statistics. It will enable them to get to know basic terminology used in statistics such as measures of central tendency, hypothesis testing and statistical significance. It will provide knowledge needed to understand, interpret and undertake descriptive statistics and run statistical analysis. Emphasis will be on conducting statistical tests by hand and use of the statistical software SPSS. Students will be able to identify appropriate statistical tests and interpretation of the analysis through a arrange of available tools. 

Programme

Activities and tasks will be embedded into each unit so students can practice the techniques they have learned and develop their skills. Students will be encouraged to share their own work and participate in discussions on Blackboard. Alongside the learning materials on Blackboard the tutor will be on hand via email to answer any queries and provide guidance throughout the course. They will also participate in the online discussions.   

  • Unit 1 - Introduction to descriptive statistics. 
  • Unit 2 - Understanding which statistical test to use. 
  • Unit 3 - Introduction to SPSS. 
  • Unit 4 - T-Tests. 
  • Unit 5 – ANOVA. 
  • Unit 6 – Correlations. 

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module, students should be able to:

  1. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of terminology used in statistics.
  2. Apply and understand which appropriate statistical tests to use to answer research questions.
  3. Compute statistical analysis tests by hand and through SPSS.
  4. Understand the process of report writing for each statistical test. 

Assessments

  1. Multiple choice questions 20%
  2. 3 x 300 words statistical analysis write-ups 80% 

Reading Suggestions

Reading suggestions will be offered throughout the course. 

Entry Requirements

This course is for everyone. No previous experience is needed and there are no formal entry requirements. 

What Do I Need?

As this is an online course, you would need the following:

  • Internet access.
  • Access to a laptop or computer with a web camera and microphone; the use of headphones might also benefit.
  • Use of the Chrome web browser where possible.