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Duration
LevelStatistics for Behavioural Researchers, Part 1 (B-KUL-P0R97B)
Aims
After following this course, the student is able to understand and use elementary concepts in descriptive and inferential statistics, also in the context of substantive research questions in the domain of behavioral sciences.
Previous knowledge
A basic mathematical background knowledge is expected, including calculus, basic algebra, relations and functions, limits, surface calculations of simple figures.
Content
See below.
Course material
Syllabus
Slides, transparencies, courseware
Toledo / e-platform
Order of Enrolment
This course unit is a prerequisite for taking the following course units:
P0S18A : Statistics for Behavioural Researchers, Part 2
Is also included in other courses
Activities
2.0 ects. Statistics for Behavioural Researchers, Part 1: Lecture (B-KUL-P0R97a)
Content
The course consists of three major parts. In the first part, descriptive statistics are discussed. Starting from questions and problems from the behavioural sciences, including examples from real studies, the use of graphical representations and methods of exploratory data-analysis is discussed. The use of descriptive statistics for one, two and more than two variables is discussed, with a lot of attention for correlation and simple linear regression.
The second part is focused on inferential statistics. After an introduction including combinatorics and probability theory, this part follows an analogue structure compared to the first part, discussing the analysis of one, two and more than two variables.
In a third part, the connection is made between the first two parts. More specifically, it is demonstrated how the statistics discussed in the descriptive part can give information about their population counterparts. Principles of point and interval estimation and of hypothesis testing are discussed.
Description of learning activities
Weekly lectures, during which new theory will be discussed.
Course material
Syllabus: 'Statistiek voor Psychologen' (author: Prof. Iven Van Mechelen).
For the third part (principles of inferences), use will be made of the 6th and 7th chapter of Moore, D. S., & McCabe, G. P. (2006). Statistiek in de praktijk (4de ed.). Schoonhoven: Academic Service.
JAVA applets and Toledo will be used as well.
2.0 ects. Statistics for Behavioural Researchers, Part 1: Practicum (B-KUL-P0S33a)
Content
No new content will be discussed during the practical sessions, but concepts and techniques that were introduced during the lectures will be practiced.
For students who cannot attend the lectures and/or practical sessions, written instructions and two collective evening sessions are provided.
Description of learning activities
Weekly practical sessions. Each time, students prepare a few exercises. During the sessions, there is time for questions regarding the theory and exercises are discussed in small groups or in the whole group.
Course material
Same as for lectures.
Evaluation
Evaluation: Statistics for Behavioural Researchers, Part 1 (B-KUL-P2R97b)
Explanation
The exam (first and third exam period) consists of about 20 questions, assessing knowledge, understanding and ability to apply techniques.
Students can work 3 hours during their exam. They can use a hand calculator and an extended formularium (made available on the electronic platform).
