Statistics Made Simple

Brad R. Fulton, PhD
Statistics Made Simple

This podcast introduces the statistical methods used to analyze data about society with an emphasis on applying those methods. This podcast will help you to be a more informed and critical reader of academic research, public opinion polling, and advertisement claims that present statistical evidence. Textbook: ⁠Statistics: Unlocking the Power of Data⁠ (https://bit.ly/statsbooklock5) Students can use the Promotion Code "LOCK5" for a 10% discount Instructors can request a free Digital Evaluation Copy Lecture slides and course material can be obtained by emailing bradrfulton@gmail.com

  1. 2_Sampling

    JUN 19

    2_Sampling

    In this episode of "Sampling," the complexities of sampling in research are explored, drawing an intriguing parallel to casual weekend trips to Costco for free samples. This analogy sets the stage for a deeper discussion on the statistical methods and challenges involved in sampling populations for research purposes. The intricacies of statistical inference are unpacked, highlighting the crucial differences between a sample and a population, and emphasizing the importance of accurate sampling to derive meaningful conclusions about larger groups. Listeners will find an engaging segment on the implications of the Racial Justice Act and how statistical evidence is increasingly used in legal contexts to demonstrate discrimination. The conversation extends to a real-world application by recounting the 2000 U.S.presidential election, highlighting how sampling errors can lead to major national confusion Throughout the episode, intuitive examples are used to explain why sampling is not just a matter of picking randomly but requires careful consideration to avoid bias and ensure representativeness. This richly layered discussion not only sheds light on the technical aspects of sampling but also emphasizes its significance in everyday decision-making processes, from law to grocery shopping. *****Textbook: ⁠Statistics: Unlocking the Power of Data⁠ Students can use the Promotion Code "LOCK5" for a 10% discount. Instructors can request a free Digital Evaluation Copy. Lecture slides and additional course material can beobtained by emailing bradrfulton@gmail.com

    51 min
  2. 4_Variables

    JUN 19

    4_Variables

    In this episode of the podcast titled "Variables," we delve into the intriguing world of statistics and sociology, exploring how different variables can profoundly influence our understanding of societal trends and behaviors. The discussion kicks off by examining the relationship between air pollution and the proportion of paved versus grassy ground in urban areas. A lively debate unfolds as participants identify potential confounding variables, like the presence of industrial areas or the volume of traffic, which could skew perceptions of the data's implications. The conversation then transitions to a broader discussion on the importance of considering various variables when interpreting sociological data. Real-life examples are brought into the mix, such as attitudes towards controversial issues like suicide and abortion, highlighting how personal experiences and demographic factors can influence responses. Listeners will gain insights into how sociologists and statisticians approach data analysis, emphasizing the need to identify and account for additional variables that could impact associations observed in initial data sets. This episode not only sheds light on the complexities of data interpretation but also encourages listeners to think critically about the factors that shape our understanding of the world around us. ***** Textbook: ⁠Statistics: Unlocking the Power of Data⁠ Students can use the Promotion Code "LOCK5" for a 10% discount. Instructors can request a free Digital Evaluation Copy. Lecture slides and additional course material can beobtained by emailing bradrfulton@gmail.com

    51 min
  3. 5_Distributions and Relationships

    JUN 19

    5_Distributions and Relationships

    In this insightful episode of "Distributions and Relationships," listeners are guided through essential statistical concepts crucial for academic assessments and research. The discussion emphasizes the importance of precisely addressing questions as posed in assignments and exams, stressing that exceeding or misinterpreting questions can detract from performance due to the finite scoring structure. A highlight of the episode is the practical exploration of confounding variables in research studies, using caffeine consumption and exam performance to illustrate the difference between observational studies and experimental designs. Listeners are taught the importance of eliminating confounding variables to make valid causal claims in experiments. The episode also delves into the process of identifying and utilizing variables effectively in research, particularly using the General Social Survey (GSS) as a tool for understanding correlations and distributions among different demographic questions. The dialogue is enriched with student interactions, providing a dynamic learning experience that clarifies complex statistical concepts through relatable examples and questions from real coursework scenarios. ***** Textbook: ⁠Statistics: Unlocking the Power of Data⁠ Students can use the Promotion Code "LOCK5" for a 10% discount. Instructors can request a free Digital Evaluation Copy. Lecture slides and additional course material can beobtained by emailing bradrfulton@gmail.com

    44 min
4.9
out of 5
316 Ratings

About

This podcast introduces the statistical methods used to analyze data about society with an emphasis on applying those methods. This podcast will help you to be a more informed and critical reader of academic research, public opinion polling, and advertisement claims that present statistical evidence. Textbook: ⁠Statistics: Unlocking the Power of Data⁠ (https://bit.ly/statsbooklock5) Students can use the Promotion Code "LOCK5" for a 10% discount Instructors can request a free Digital Evaluation Copy Lecture slides and course material can be obtained by emailing bradrfulton@gmail.com

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