Applied Research Methods

Catalog description

Investigates methods for assessing data collected from experimental and/or observational studies in various research setting. STAT 800 Applied Research Methods (3) This course provides students with a broad exploration of the tools and methods in Applied Statistics. In particular, it investigates basic probability distributions and methods for assessing data collected from experimental and/or observational studies in social science and other research settings. Students learn methods of point and interval estimation, including sample size determinations required to achieve a prescribed margin of error. Additionally, students examine hypothesis testing and the determination of sample sizes to achieve a prescribed power of a given test. The distinction between observational studies and randomized experiments is clarified and the limitations of the conclusions are emphasized. Research articles that are relevant to students' fields of study are used to determine how these statistical methods are being applied. Students then identify and critique appropriate research methods. Students work with various data sets to establish fundamental practices that properly analyze data and interpret results via either Minitab or SPSS statistical software as they formulate and communicate conclusions based on a given research context.