Successful statistical analysis of research data is an integral part of any social sciences degree. This straightforward and accessible text provides students with both a beginners guide and a continuing reference tool for undertaking statistical analysis using SPSS. Through clear instructions and relevant examples, Sarantokas introduces key skills for every new comer to the subject, such as choosing the appropriate test, loading data, using graphs and interpreting computer outputs. Drawing on extensive data sets and pedagogical features, this book is an up to date and user-friendly guide to statistics and SPSS, which no Social Sciences student should be without.

Guides readers through the quantitative data analysis process including contextualizing data within a research situation, connecting data to the appropriate statistical tests, and drawing valid conclusions Introduction to Quantitative Data Analysis in the Behavioral and Social Sciences presents a clear and accessible introduction to the basics of quantitative data analysis and focuses on how to use statistical tests as a key tool for analyzing research data. The book presents the entire data analysis process as a cyclical, multiphase process and addresses the processes of exploratory analysis, decision-making for performing parametric or nonparametric analysis, and practical significance determination. In addition, the author details how data analysis is used to reveal the underlying patterns and relationships between the variables and connects those trends to the data’s contextual situation. Filling the gap in quantitative data analysis literature, this book teaches the methods and thought processes behind data analysis, rather than how to perform the study itself or how to perform individual statistical tests. With a clear and conversational style, readers are provided with a better understanding of the overall structure and methodology behind performing a data analysis as well as the needed techniques to make informed, meaningful decisions during data analysis. The book features numerous data analysis examples in order to emphasize the decision and thought processes that are best followed, and self-contained sections throughout separate the statistical data analysis from the detailed discussion of the concepts allowing readers to reference a specific section of the book for immediate solutions to problems and/or applications. Introduction to Quantitative Data Analysis in the Behavioral and Social Sciences also features coverage of the following: • The overall methodology and research mind-set for how to approach quantitative data analysis and how to use statistics tests as part of research data analysis • A comprehensive understanding of the data, its connection to a research situation, and the most appropriate statistical tests for the data • Numerous data analysis problems and worked-out examples to illustrate the decision and thought processes that reveal underlying patterns and trends • Detailed examples of the main concepts to aid readers in gaining the needed skills to perform a full analysis of research problems • A conversational tone to effectively introduce readers to the basics of how to perform data analysis as well as make meaningful decisions during data analysis Introduction to Quantitative Data Analysis in the Behavioral and Social Sciences is an ideal textbook for upper-undergraduate and graduate-level research method courses in the behavioral and social sciences, statistics, and engineering. This book is also an appropriate reference for practitioners who require a review of quantitative research methods. Michael J. Albers, Ph.D., is Professor in the Department of English at East Carolina University. His research interests include information design with a focus on answering real-world questions, the presentation of complex information, and human–information interaction. Dr. Albers received his Ph.D. in Technical Communication and Rhetoric from Texas Tech University.

An introduction to many mathematical topics applicable to quantitative finance that teaches how to “think in mathematics” rather than simply do mathematics by rote. This text offers an accessible yet rigorous development of many of the fields of mathematics necessary for success in investment and quantitative finance, covering topics applicable to portfolio theory, investment banking, option pricing, investment, and insurance risk management. The approach emphasizes the mathematical framework provided by each mathematical discipline, and the application of each framework to the solution of finance problems. It emphasizes the thought process and mathematical approach taken to develop each result instead of the memorization of formulas to be applied (or misapplied) automatically. The objective is to provide a deep level of understanding of the relevant mathematical theory and tools that can then be effectively used in practice, to teach students how to “think in mathematics” rather than simply to do mathematics by rote. Each chapter covers an area of mathematics such as mathematical logic, Euclidean and other spaces, set theory and topology, sequences and series, probability theory, and calculus, in each case presenting only material that is most important and relevant for quantitative finance. Each chapter includes finance applications that demonstrate the relevance of the material presented. Problem sets are offered on both the mathematical theory and the finance applications sections of each chapter. The logical organization of the book and the judicious selection of topics make the text customizable for a number of courses. The development is self-contained and carefully explained to support disciplined independent study as well. A solutions manual for students provides solutions to the book's Practice Exercises; an instructor's manual offers solutions to the Assignment Exercises as well as other materials.

This book is an accessible introduction to quantitative dataanalysis, concentrating on the key issues facing those new toresearch, such as how to decide which statistical procedure issuitable, and how to interpret the subsequent results. Each chapterincludes illustrative examples and a set of exercises that allowsreaders to test their understanding of the topic. The book, writtenfor graduate students in the social sciences, public health, andeducation, offers a practical approach to making sociological senseout of a body of quantitative data. The book also will be useful tomore experienced researchers who need a readily accessible handbookon quantitative methods. The author has posted stata files, updates and data sets athis websitehttp://tinyurl.com/Treiman-stata-files-data-sets.

How to accelerate analysis into action Using data for school improvement is a key goal of Race to the Top, and now is the time to make data-driven school improvement a priority. However, many educators are drowning in data. Boost your professional learning community′s ability to translate data into action with this new book from Pam Robbins and Robert T. Hess. The Data Toolkit provides ten easy-to-use tools that don′t require statistical expertise, can be implemented in a timely manner, and facilitate problem-solving at the classroom, school, and district levels. These proven methods help educators: Frame the questions Drive the conversation Engage in productive reflection Uncover understandings Create a data-driven plan Achieve and monitor results Written in an educator-friendly format each chapter contains instructions on using the tool, a sample scenario, and examples—practical resources that will help your PLC be the best it can be. Also included are case studies that show how data teams, PLCs, and individual teachers have used the book′s methods in their own settings. The culminating school improvement mapping tool guides the team through designing an action plan focused on increasing student learning and achievement outcomes.

This concise book will help you to interpret the statistical evidence provided by quantitative studies and to plan how to work with data in your own clinical research. Following the successful format of the Toolkit series, Statistics Toolkit guides the reader through statistical concepts using flowcharts, diagrams and real life examples to reflect concepts in a simple and practical manner. Sections include: Clear explanation of basic concepts in the context of clinical research Demonstration of how data are described, displayed and interpreted in different formats Practical glossary and key to the symbols used in statistics and a discussion of the software tools The book offers a handy, quick reference that has an easy-to-follow structure throughout, making it ideal for health care professionals and students.

An evidence-based organizational framework for exceptional analytics team results The Analytics Lifecycle Toolkit provides managers with a practical manual for integrating data management and analytic technologies into their organization. Author Gregory Nelson has encountered hundreds of unique perspectives on analytics optimization from across industries; over the years, successful strategies have proven to share certain practices, skillsets, expertise, and structural traits. In this book, he details the concepts, people and processes that contribute to exemplary results, and shares an organizational framework for analytics team functions and roles. By merging analytic culture with data and technology strategies, this framework creates understanding for analytics leaders and a toolbox for practitioners. Focused on team effectiveness and the design thinking surrounding product creation, the framework is illustrated by real-world case studies to show how effective analytics team leadership works on the ground. Tools and templates include best practices for process improvement, workforce enablement, and leadership support, while guidance includes both conceptual discussion of the analytics life cycle and detailed process descriptions. Readers will be equipped to: Master fundamental concepts and practices of the analytics life cycle Understand the knowledge domains and best practices for each stage Delve into the details of analytical team processes and process optimization Utilize a robust toolkit designed to support analytic team effectiveness The analytics life cycle includes a diverse set of considerations involving the people, processes, culture, data, and technology, and managers needing stellar analytics performance must understand their unique role in the process of winnowing the big picture down to meaningful action. The Analytics Lifecycle Toolkit provides expert perspective and much-needed insight to managers, while providing practitioners with a new set of tools for optimizing results.

This new edition has been completely updated to accommodate the needs of users of SPSS Release 12 and 13 for Windows, whilst still being applicable to those using SPSS Release 11 and 10. Alan Bryman and Duncan Cramer provide a non-technical approach to quantitative data analysis and a user-friendly introduction to the widely used SPSS. No previous familiarity with computing or statistics is required to benefit from this step-by-step guide to techniques including: Non-parametric tests Correlation Simple and multiple regression Multivarate analysis of variance and covariance Factor analysis The authors discuss key issues facing the newcomer to research, such as how to decide which statistical procedure is suitable, and how to interpret the subsequent results. Each chapter contains worked examples to illustrate the points raised and ends with a comprehensive range of exercises which allow the reader to test their understanding of the topic. This new edition of this hugely successful textbook will guide the reader through the basics of quantitative data analysis and become an essential reference tool for both students and researchers in the social sciences. The datasets used in Quantitative Data Analysis for SPSS Release 12 and 13 are available online at www.psypress.com/brymancramer/ .

Quantitative Methods for Business: The A-Z of QM will enable readers to: *Appreciate the significance of quantitative methods for businesses and the study of business *Understand and apply a wide range of quantitative techniques *Select appropriate quantitative techniques for data analysis, problem solving and decision making *Interpret and communicate the results of quantitative analysis

For social researchers who need to know what procedures to use under what circumstances in practical research projects, this book does not require an indepth understanding of statistical theory.