Summary: Biostatistics

Read the summary and the most important questions on Biostatistics

• Exam 1

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• Measures of Central Tendency

  A way of measuring based on a bell-shaped curve.
  Mode, Median, Mean - Mean is the most stable.
  A convenient way of summarizing research data is to find a single measure that can represent a whole set of measures --> Averages are used for this purpose.

• What are denote characteristics of Statistics?`

  Used to refer to recorded data.
  Mean, Standard deviation, correlation coefficient.

• Numbers are numbers and you can only present what you have, so..

  Statisticians can also be used to mislead by presenting them in a specific way. Be sure to look at all perimeters when looking at data and graphs.

• What is Inferential Statistical Methods?

  Methods used for answering questions about the general nature of all things using the measurable, available information (data) collected from a few things.

• What do Inferential Statistical Methods do?

  Predict or estimate characteristics of the whole based on the characteristics of a part or subset of the whole.

• What are the two types of Statistical Methods?

  Deductive Reasoning and Inductive Reasoning.

• What is an example of Deductive Reasoning?

  Based on general research findings, I can deduce that cholesterol level of 200 or above indicates a higher risk for heart disease.

• What are Descriptive Statistics used for? (3)

  (1) Provide a basis for making comparisons and determining trends.
  (2) Reveal current weaknesses and/or strengths in a present situation.
  (3) Provide information for making decisions.

• What do weaknesses show about statistics?

  (1) What is rather than what ought to be.
  (2) Does not reveal the causal factors influencing behavior or attitude - cannot say that something "causes" something else.
  (3) Susceptible to limitations in the areas of sampling and adequacy of evidence gathered.
  (4) Possibility of securing inaccurate information or of making incorrect interpretations of data collected.

• Why study Statistics?

  (1) Can help discriminate between fact and fancy in everyday life.
  (2) Essential for people pursuing careers in education or research, will have a better understanding of research and methods.