STATISTICAL METHODS IN SOFTWARE PACKAGES APPLIED TO PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Catalog description

Introduction to the practical use of statistical methods most commonly applied in social sciences, including descriptive statistics, inferential methods, and regressions in various forms. Emphasis on conceptually understanding statistical methods, knowing when to use which methods, how to use them, how to execute them in statistical software, such as SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) software, and how to interpret the results from computer output. Emphasis is provided to the use of surveys techniques as a research method and the complementary use of SPSS. This course will be conducted using different teaching methods including, but not limited to lectures, audiovisual presentations, case studies, Internet assignments, action research, field experiences, and conferences.