Other Questions?
What is the difference between statistics and data?
Statistics are often used to support an argument. Totals, sums, or averages are examples of statistics. Statistics condense information, making it easier to use and understand. Generally, they summarize or aggregate raw data.
The names of visitors and when they viewed a blog are data, whereas the fact that 20 people visited a blog yesterday is a statistic. Visit a blog census.
Why are the statistics and data so old? Where could I find more recent information?
Data needs to collected, compiled, and analyzed; the results are interpreted. For large samples or studies involving many people or observations, the process may take years. The publication process also can be quite lengthy as researchers try to ensure that high quality data and analysis are disseminated. As a result, the most current statistics may be several years old. The U.S. government is one source of timely information.
What are source notes?
Source notes are found at the bottom of the statistical tables. They provide the names of the authors or organization that conducted the actual research. Source notes suggest additional sources to investigate for related reports or the raw data. The source for the table below is the U.S. Census Bureau. You can go to the Census website for more details about demographics. Ask us for additional assistance.
What if I still can't find what I am looking for? How do I contact a librarian?
Contact the Libraries’ Data Services Specialist, Sheree Fu or the librarian who is a Subject Specialist in your discipline.
What is a scholarly journal?
Also referred to as peer reviewed or refereed, a scholarly journal features articles written by researchers or scholars in a particular subject or discipline supported by in depth research (qualitative or quantitative). Articles in many scholarly journals have been reviewed (refereed) and selected by other scholars (peers) in order to be published. An article in a scholarly journal is usually documented with footnotes and/or a bibliography.
What if I need help with learning or teaching statistical concepts or finding other statistical resources on the Internet?
One local resource at Claremont Graduate University is WISE. WISE provides "interactive tutorials on key statistical concepts (sampling distributions, the central limit theorem, hypothesis testing, and statistical power)." In addition to being aware of available resources, communicating with your advisor or professor is another key to success.