No credit granted to those who have completed or are enrolled in Soc. This course is designed to provide an overview of the field statistics. Basic fallacies in common statistical analyses and reasoning are discussed and proper methods indicated. Alternative approaches to statistical inference are also discussed. The course emphasis is on presenting basic underlying concepts rather than on covering a wide variety of different methodologies.
Evaluation is based upon three hourly in-class examinations and a final examination.
The course format is lecture with some discussion. The Art of Scientific Investigation. The objective of this course is to introduce students to the learning process in a non-deterministic environment. An appreciation for measurement, bias and variation is essential to formulate questions and learn about things. Underlying this course is the Edwards Deming philosophy.