Statistics and Data Analysis for Social Science

Thank you to our reviewers!

Michael Abel, Brigham Young University, Idaho

Dusten Hollist, University of Montana, Missoula

Veena Kulkarni, Arkansas State University

Shannon Monnat, University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Christopher Sedalmaier, University of New Haven

Nancy Shields, University of Missouri, St. Louis

Berna Torr, California State University, Fresno

Bethany Van Vleet, Arizona State University

Junming Wang, University of Memphis

Aaryn Ward, Louisiana State University

Loretta Winters, California State University, Northridge

Joseph Whitmeyer, University of North Carolina, Charlotte

“The ‘Now You Try It’ feature is very fundamental, helpful, and effective.”

Junmin Wang, University of Memphis

“The writing style is appropriate for an entry level course. The topics are covered in a way that is not overly technical. The author does a nice job of intergrating and talking about the examples and figures.”

Dusten Hollist, The University of Montana-Missoula

“The strength is the focus on calculation and a good set of topics.”

Joseph Whitmeyer, University of North Carolina-Charlotte

• Introduces only those statistical concepts that are necessary to understand, interpret, and present social science research
• Complexity of calculations are reduced to those elements necessary for understanding the concept
• All concepts are introduced in the context of a social science application; text regularly answers the question, “Why statistics?”
• Interspersed practice questions (with answers) provide incremental checks of student understanding
• Graphical presentation and emphasis on what data “looks like” takes the place of theoretical explanations
• Friendly, conversational writing style, and open, workbook-like design reduce anxiety
• Pedagogy features to help with student learning:
  • Now You Try It exercises: After a statistical concept is introduced, the student is given a few practice exercises to reinforce understanding. Answers to these exercises are provided at the end of the chapter.
  • Uses/Misuses: Encourages students to be informed consumers of statistical information, by giving real examples of how statistics can inform or deceive.
  • Eye on the Applied: Takes an important concept from the chapter and provides a case study example.
  • Integrating Technology boxes: Shows how statistical software can be used to analyze and display data. Step-by-step instruction for SPSS will be provided in a supplementary technology manual.