Statistics and Quantitative Data Analysis

What the page covers

This unit sits in the Data Collection and Analysis strand of Research methods and academic skills. Most of it is quantitative: tests, models and how to read their output. Some qualitative analysis maps are included too, so you can compare the two approaches.

Tests and models

The quizzes take on the harder material. Research Methods IV - Week 7 Factorial ANOVA I asks what a three way ANOVA with a 3x3x2 design tells you, and how the variability explained by the model can be split further. A companion quiz covers Week 4 Within-Subjects ANOVA. Research Methods: Multiple Regression treats regression as an extension of linear regression and asks when extra variables help. The Research Methods flashcard deck sets out standard, hierarchical and step wise multiple regression.

For factor analysis, the deck RM - Lecture 4 - Factor Analysis asks what Charles Spearman did and what factor analysis is good for. There is also a Factor Analysis slide set, and the Week 3 mind map on the same topic. Moderation and mediation have their own decks.

Foundations and process

If you need the basics first, open the mind map Data analysis and presentation. It covers nominal, ordinal and interval scales, then bar charts and histograms. The quiz Research Methods II potential MCQ's includes a question comparing exam scores against group means and standard deviations. Several maps set out the steps of a statistical investigation, from collecting data to interpreting it.

A sensible order

1. Skim a foundations map to settle scales and descriptive statistics.
2. Work through the flashcards on regression or factor analysis.
3. Take the matching quiz without notes.
4. Return to the map for anything you missed.

Maps show how ideas connect, while quizzes show what you can actually recall. Using both gives a clearer picture than either alone.

Pick one test you find hardest, open its quiz, and see where you stand.