Over my time in this course, Statistics For The Social Sciences, I gained the understanding of the computer application of quantitative and statistical techniques to sociological data. When working in SPSS and RStudio, I learned how to code, sample, build data sets, hypothesis testing, and theoretical modeling. After evaluating the data sets, I knew how to summarize the data and interpret it using the mathematical vocabulary used throughout this course. I learned how to think like a researcher and adapt the habits of a scientist. A researcher should be able to observe the data and analyze the patterns and concepts, then taking them and creating theories that relate.
Not only did I learn how to do this electronically but I knew how to solve with hand calculations by using different formulas. I was able to explain the differences between the various statistical techniques and identify the proper technique for given research questions and data. Within my E-Portfolio I took different samples that I coded in Rstudio and created them into charts, breaking down the important numbers of the data set. Some of the statistical analysis I worked with was t-tests, chi squared, pearson’s correlation, regression model, ANOVA, and a regression model. One of the biggest changes I noticed throughout this learning process was being able to wrap my head around how to apply mathematical formulas along with the data and interpreting it. I saw the growth of myself being able to understand why I am analyzing data and what it means.
I created my own statistical manual so that I could use these techniques for any future career. Within this manual I can look back and see the coding and data sets I created in Rstudio and SPSS. Also, handwritten formulas and mathematical step by step notes of solving the data analysis. I have charts and tables explaining the data sets and why there is a certain outcome. When working through my manual I learned how to use the proper methods to get to the results of the sample, having the correct analysis.
This is important to know now and in the future because you can apply these methods and skills when working with data sets and marketing in a future job. In any job or program I could use my skills when doing research and analyzing data of a certain topic or issue. This will improve my status as a job candidate and allows me to be deeply involved and interactive with research. My skills will help me make informed decisions within a job or project. Since I know how to collect the statistics I can help track the progress, measure the performance, and analyze it. With these steps being taken I can evaluate the program or policy and help advance it. This will also help me further create predictions and prepare the resources that are needed within a program and make those connections.
Besides the math and data part of the statistical process, statistics in research taught me how to critically think, evaluate outcomes, and be prepared for what might happen next. Statistics allows researchers to have a reason to create a study. This matters because when I have a question or want to evaluate a certain population, using statistical skills will get me to the answer that I am looking for. With companies and programs using more technology nowadays, it is important to be able to create data sets and knowing how to take that sample and break it down. When doing research, in the professional field there can always be room with improvement with building stronger connections, addressing inequality, reducing obstacles, and even costs of a program. So, with that, you may not realize you are using statistics, but to keep building on these issues you will need these skills.
What I will do with the skills I have learned in this course is apply it to my career. Since I want to work in the criminal justice system I will need to do research and random sampling to get to the answer to my research question. For example, if I want to perform hypothesis tests about juveniles with mental health issues or substance abuse problems, I will apply my knowledge about confidence intervals with estimates about that population. When I work in the criminal justice system I will be using the statistical data within different areas to know where the high crime and hot spots are. This can predict where the most crime will happen and how closely they need to be supervised. When getting the resources for individuals that are incarcerated, I will use statistical research with probability sampling methods to gather an overall finding of the population. Not only will I use all of this within my job but it is also important to have this information to relay to the public and retrieve input.