Statistical methods : an introduction to basic statistical concepts and analysis

Abstract

This book is a textbook designed for students with no prior training in statistics. It provides a solid background of the core statistical concepts taught in most introductory statistics textbooks. Mathematical proofs are deemphasized in favor of careful explanations of statistical constructs. The text begins with coverage of descriptive statistics such as measures of central tendency and variability, then moves on to inferential statistics. Transitional chapters on z-scores, probability, and sampling distributions pave the way to understanding the logic of hypothesis testing and the inferential tests that follow. Hypothesis testing is taught through a four-step process. These same four steps are used throughout the text for the other statistical tests presented including t tests, one- and two-way ANOVAs, chi-square, and correlation. A chapter on nonparametric tests is also provided as an alternative when the requirements cannot be met for parametric tests.