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Statistics without Mathematics
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Statistics without Mathematics



October 2015 | 192 pages | SAGE Publications Ltd

This is a book about the ideas that drive statistics. It is an ideal primer for students who need an introduction to the concepts of statistics without the added confusion of technical jargon and mathematical language.

It introduces the intuitive thinking behind standard procedures, explores the process of informal reasoning, and uses conceptual frameworks to provide a foundation for students new to statistics. It showcases the expertise we have all developed from living in a data saturated society, increases our statistical literacy and gives us the tools needed to approach statistical mathematics with confidence.

Key topics include:

  • Variability
  • Standard Distributions
  • Correlation
  • Relationship
  • Sampling
  • Inference  

An engaging, informal introduction this book sets out the conceptual tools required by anyone undertaking statistical procedures for the first time or for anyone needing a fresh perspective whilst studying the work of others.

 
Introduction: Before We Begin
 
Chapter 1: Picturing Variability
 
Chapter 2: Interpreting Variability
 
Chapter 3: Three Standard Distributions
 
Chapter 4: Summarising Variation
 
Chapter 5: The Analysis of Variation
 
Chapter 6: Covariation
 
Chapter 7: Sampling
 
Chapter 8: Introduction to the Ideas of Inference
 
Chapter 9: Sampling Distributions and More on Inference
 
Chapter 10: Inference about Averages
 
Chapter 11: Binary Data
 
Chapter 12: Goodness of fit
 
Chapter 13: Unobserved Variables
 
Chapter 14: Retrospect
 
Apendix

Bartholomew brings a wealth of experience to this book, explaining all of the most fundamental concepts in statistics with insight but without technicalities. This is an excellent read for the learner or the teacher, to establish or reinforce a proper understanding of what statistics is really all about.

Neil Sheldon
Associate Lecturer, RSS Centre for Statistical Education, Plymouth University

This is a rather thin volume that goes into depth of some introductory statistical concepts. I found the material to be too detailed for social science students on a research methods course. For students on a introductory statistics course it might be more useful; however, I would prefer a text that has practice activities, MCQs, and that embedded the concepts with actual research examples.

Dr Trevor James
School of Psychology, Newcastle University
November 2, 2015

Students often worry that their mathematic skills (or lack thereof) will prevent them from carrying out quality research during their degree. This book forms a good foundation to ease students into statistics and outlines the central ideas in statistics such as variation very clearly. A good basic book for students to understand.

Dr Helen Nicholas
Psychology Department, Worcester University
October 19, 2015

Great book which takes the fear out of statistics and give practical examples on what's behind the formulas.

Miss Agnieszka Zablocki
Psychology , Sozial- und Wirtschaftspsychologie
March 8, 2016

This is an easy read and a good introduction to statistics for undergrad students who are less confident with numbers.

Dr Susanne Kean
School of Health in Social Science, College Of Medicine & Vet Medicine
November 10, 2015

An excellent resource for students engaging with statistics for the first time in many years. The text eases students through the key concepts of statistics and how it is used without using mathematical symbols which many students find off putting.
I will recommend to my part-time students many of whom are re-engaging with the subject for the first time in 10 years.

Ms Deirdre Lawless
School of Computing, Dublin Institute of Technology
December 2, 2015

A great text whose 'kerb appeal' will resonate with many: stats without mathematics seems to embrace the wish of many, and the text itself is configured in such a way as to embrace the reader. Very useful.

Mr Max Eames
School of Psychology, University of East London
October 25, 2015

Great resource to support students learning about statistics

Dr Martyn Richard Harling
Faculty of Education, Health, Sciences, Derby University
November 19, 2015

The course I teach is meant to also familiarise students with the mathematics. As such, I appreciate the book very much for its didactics, explanations and examples given - but will not use t first-hand in the course.

Dr Christian E.G. Steglich
Department of Sociology, Groningen University (RuG)
October 12, 2015

A useful text for students who might have a few misgivings about handling numbers during their research project. The title of the book is very appropriate.

Mr Richard Gillett
Winchester Business School, Winchester University
October 29, 2015