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StatisticsA First Course

Donald H. SandersRobert K. Smidt

Aminmohamed AdatiaGlenn A. Larson

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Chapter 1

Let’s Get Started

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Chapter 1 - Topics

• What to Expect• Statistics: What is It?• Uses of Statistics• Performing Statistical Studies• Role of the Computer in Statistics

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What to Expect?• Required

– Recognize the need to understand statistics to live in the modern world

– Knowledge of high school algebra

• Not Required

– Advanced mathematics skills – calculus

• Disciplines

– Examples drawn from business and science

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Statistics: What is It?

• Statistics can be divided into two broad areas– Descriptive statistics

• Collecting, summarizing, and presenting sample data using numerical and graphical methods

– Inferential statistics• Making estimates, decisions, predictions, or

other generalizations about a larger set of data based on sampling

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Statistics: What is It?

Definitions• Population Parameter

– Data collection of measurements, objects, or individuals under study

• Sample Statistic– Portion or subset taken from population

data

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Figure 1.1

An overview of descriptive statistics and statistical inference.

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The statistical inference process involves the use of a known sample statistic to arrive at a judgment about an unknown population parameter.

Figure 1.2

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Uses of Statistics

• Describing relationships between variables– Describe and understand numerical

relationships• Aiding in decision making

– Make better decisions

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Performing Statistical Studies• Steps to obtain valid and useful results from study

– Identify your objective• Identify question to be answered• Identify relevant population

– Collect sample data• Experiment – subjecting experimental units to treatments

and observing their response• Observational study – i.e. survey, interview,

questionnaire

– Analyze the data and form conclusions

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Statistical problem-solving methodology

Figure 1.3 (2 slides)

Role of the Computer in Statistics

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Role of the Computer in Statistics

• Statistical tools used for data analysis that are highlighted in this textbook– Electronic spreadsheets

• Microsoft Excel

– Statistical analysis packages• MINITAB

– Calculators• Texas Instruments TI-83+

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End of Chapter 1

Let’s Get Started