Module overview
You will be introduced to a number of key statistical concepts and data presentation formats. Beginning with exposure to a variety of data types defining the nature and properties of data you are likely to encounter. Emphasis is placed on distinguishing between population parameters and sample statistics and exploring the nature of distributions. Aided via the introduction of a dedicated statistical software, including SPSS and R. You will become familiar with the concept of central tendency and the measurement of variation, and how these may be presented graphically. Emphasis is placed on information transfer to aid presentations, essays, reports and dissertation. In addition to computer technology, you will hone skills in the use of hand calculator for use in laboratory and the field applications. A significant portion of the unit is given to developing your understanding of a variety of common statistical procedures including establishing the presence and strength of a relationships and standard approaches for determining if significant differences exist between groups within a variety of experimental designs. Central to this is the concept of hypotheses testing.