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Statistical concepts

Module 1, Session 1

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Objectives

From this session participants will be able to:

Outline the content of the set of modules in relation to their current duties.

State their own objectives from this first module Explain what CAST is

and compare its use with an ordinary statistics textbook

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More Objectives with CASTParticipants will also be able to: Navigate in CAST.

In particular, be able to go to a specified page and then move from page to page.

Manipulate any applet, by following the instructions within CAST.

Use CAST, as a textbook, to learn or to reinforce statistical ideas.

Distinguish between learning about a new piece of software, and using it.

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Activities

1. This introduction

2. Introduction of all participants

3. Introduction to CAST electronic textbook

4. A statistical glossary1. For when you need to remind yourself about

terminology

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Contents

Background Why the course Use of computers Introductions

Resource personsParticipants

Objectives of this sequence of courses Course content Evaluation A final Aim

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Background Welcome Job involves

Data: Qualitative and/or quantitativeData analysis?Training for NSS in different countries?

Training in statistics should prepare for this Assumes basic concepts understood

Familiarity with basic computer knowledge for statistics

This first course is to reinforce these assumptions

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Why the course

Because of the central role that statistics plays in development through the sectors and

agencies at district, national and international levels.

The statistical policy, which emphasises the role of district, national and regional organisations in developing and maintaining coherent,

effective and efficient National Statistical Systems (NSS) in each country.

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Introductions

Resource persons

Participants within institutions Name, Background, Organisation, Duties, Expectations

(what are your expectations of this training/)

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Course Objectives

Overall,

Provide a solid foundation:

For improved data processing skills and

For further training in data analysis and statistical software.

(There is a sequence of courses –

This is partly a “level the playing field” course)

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Specific Objectives

To expose participants to Basic Statistics Concepts; In descriptive statistics Later courses concentrate on statistical modelling

To expose participants to various software packages including: Effective use of Excel for statistics – SSC-Stat

Needed for good communications, and maybe for yourselves?

CAST – an electronic textbook

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Specific Objectives Cont’d

To equip participants with skills to use Excel effectively for statistics

To improve simple data management skills

To enhance teamwork and improve communication skills and competences.

If project work undertaken

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Style of instruction

Concepts are taught in a non-mathematical way

With a minimum of formulae

A practical approach is integrated with the use of computers

This applies to all the modules

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Style of instruction (cont.)

How Slide presentations Demonstrations Practicals Discussions

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Training materials

File with printed materials Overview, Timetable PowerPoint Slides with space for

comments Practical exercises

Excel guide Excel Add-in

CAST electronic text book