Applied Statistics for Evaluators

Instructor: Dr. Theodore H. Poister

Description: A set of statistical tools often used in program evaluations will be presented with emphasis on appropriate application of techniques and interpretation of results. The intent is to demystify statistics and provide a basis for understanding how and when to use particular techniques. While the principal concern focuses on practical applications rather than the mathematical support underlying the procedures, a number of formulae and computations are covered to help students understand how the statistics work. Topics include introduction to data analysis; simple descriptive statistics; examination of statistical relationships; basics of statistical inference from sample data; two-sample t tests, chi square and associated measures; analysis of variance; and introduction to regression analysis. A variety of tabular and graphical output for presenting results of analyses will be explored. The class is in a computer lab where each person has a computer for illustrating techniques and applying them to real-world data, using SPSS software. However, no prior knowledge of statistics or SPSS is required. While introductory, this course can also serve as a refresher for those with some training in statistics, and those working with them now but not comfortable with when and how they should be used. (This course is expanded to 4 days-from 3 in 2002-to increase its usefulness, by covering content in greater depth and allowing more time for student application of the logic and mechanics of presented techniques.)

Certificates: CEP IB.a or CAEP IIB.a; and CQEM III.c