An Introduction to Statistical Analysis in Research

Provides well-organized coverage of statistical analysis and applications in biology, kinesiology, and physical anthropology with comprehensive insights into the techniques and interpretations of R, SPSS®, Excel®, and Numbers® output

An Introduction to Statistical Analysis in Research: With Applications in the Biological and Life Sciences develops a conceptual foundation in statistical analysis while providing readers with opportunities to practice these skills via research-based data sets in biology, kinesiology, and physical anthropology. Readers are provided with a detailed introduction and orientation to statistical analysis as well as practical examples to ensure a thorough understanding of the concepts and methodology. In addition, the book addresses not just the statistical concepts researchers should be familiar with, but also demonstrates their relevance to real-world research questions and how to perform them using easily available software packages including R, SPSS®, Excel®, and Numbers®. Specific emphasis is on the practical application of statistics in the biological and life sciences, while enhancing reader skills in identifying the research questions and testable hypotheses, determining the appropriate experimental methodology and statistical analyses, processing data, and reporting the research outcomes.

In addition, this book:

• Aims to develop readers’ skills including how to report research outcomes, determine the appropriate experimental methodology and statistical analysis, and identify the needed research questions and testable hypotheses

• Includes pedagogical elements throughout that enhance the overall learning experience including case studies and tutorials, all in an effort to gain full comprehension of designing an experiment, considering biases and uncontrolled variables, analyzing data, and applying the appropriate statistical application with valid justification

• Fills the gap between theoretically driven, mathematically heavy texts and introductory, step-by-step type books while preparing readers with the programming skills needed to carry out basic statistical tests, build support figures, and interpret the results

• Provides a companion website that features related R, SPSS, Excel, and Numbers data sets, sample PowerPoint® lecture slides, end of the chapter review questions, software video tutorials that highlight basic statistical concepts, and a student workbook and instructor manual

An Introduction to Statistical Analysis in Research: With Applications in the Biological and Life Sciences is an ideal textbook for upper-undergraduate and graduate-level courses in research methods, biostatistics, statistics, biology, kinesiology, sports science and medicine, health and physical education, medicine, and nutrition. The book is also appropriate as a reference for researchers and professionals in the fields of anthropology, sports research, sports science, and physical education.