This whole process started last fall with the class Social Research and Program.This past semester was when my classmates and I took on the challenge that Dr. Pederson our professor gave us.Within the topic she gave us and the survey that was conducted I decided to research on whether or not parent/family encouragement stimulates children’s involvement. It was an extensive process of collecting data then putting a code on everything which back then we didn’t know why but Dr. Pederson was about to introduce us to SPSS and Rstudio. Throughout this semester she taught us a few different ways to analyze the data we collected, which includes how to conduct independent sample t-test, ANOVA, chi-square, Pearson’s Correlation and Regression. With all those tests a by hand section on how to do all five tests was given. Along with how to enter all that data on SPSS and Rstudio.
After each step was completed for each chapter, we were also instructed on how to enter all the research data along with the results into our e-portfolios. At the end of the semester I can confidently say that with the manual that was put together with all that information plus the step by step, chapter by chapter information in it I can conduct and interpret all five tests.We were also provided with any extra formulas or tables that were needed for interpretation are also included in the manual.
For the long run, all skills that I learned in both classes can be applied to the real world. Skills such as R, SPSS, Excel data analysis and inferential statistics, the ability to convey complex statistical information to a diverse audience, analytical thinking, sampling techniques and quantitative data description and analysis. With the knowledge acquired a number of objectives can be achieved including explaining basic concepts of social stats, summarizing numeric data by computing descriptive statistics such as mean and variance and also creating tables and graphs and explaining the differences between various statistical techniques and identifying the proper technique for whatever research given and data.
This class provides students with skills that can be used with potential career paths, for me specifically because I would like to pursue a federal or state government job once I graduate and with the practical values that was taught to me I have that extra tool already under my belt. The skills I learned over these two semesters can potentially set me up for success with my first job wherever that may be. All my research and data entry are all registered in my e-portfolio for easy access for my future employers.
Lastly, I wouldn’t say both courses are necessarily easy but I really applied myself and will be getting a much greater outcome than the hardships I had to go through to get here. I’m hoping that when I start my internship this summer with the Police Department in Farmville, If needed I would be able to use any of the information I have in hand already which could have potential in the future once I’m looking for jobs that leave a great impression. Such skills could take me even further if I decide to go back home and get a job, with my diploma from Longwood plus the manual I will carry with me as long as it lasts.