This course provides an introduction to basic statistics with an emphasis on statistical concepts and methods commonly applied in social research. Lecture topics cover measurement scales, frequency distributions, measures of central location and dispersion, sampling distribution of statistics, confidence intervals and hypothesis test, Chi-squared test, correlation and linear regression. Teaching is provided through lectures and computer training sessions. No previous knowledge of statistics is assumed, however, a sound knowledge of basic mathematics and spreadsheets is required. The course will equip students with the skills required to assess the validity of common statistical tests used in quantitative research.

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Understand the nature of statistical data.

2. Undertake univariate and bivariate statistical tests as appropriate.

3. Construct an argument using theory and data.

4. Choose appropriate methods for presenting research results.

1. Ten online quizzes (50%) [Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 4]

2. Class presentation (20%) [Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4]

3. In-class test (30%) [Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4]

Lecture: 1 hour per week

Computer Lab: 2 hours per week

Outside class time students will be expected to spend around seven hours per week on exercises and assessment tasks.

Mathematical skills to the level of DEMO6926 Maths for Social Scientists (assessed by qualifications or test).