Overview
Foundations of Statistics develops statistical literacy for students in quantitative and non-quantitative disciplines. The course examines data types and measurement scales, populations and samples, sampling methods, bias, frequency tables, graphical displays, measures of center and spread, position, five-number summaries, outliers, correlation, association, and introductory regression.
Students study basic probability, sampling distributions, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, practical and statistical significance, and responsible communication of statistical findings. Emphasis is placed on selecting appropriate summaries and visualizations, interpreting statistical output in context, distinguishing correlation from causation, assessing data quality and limitations, conducting introductory inferential procedures, using statistical software or spreadsheets, supporting reproducible analysis, and communicating results ethically to technical and general audiences.
Learning Outcomes
- Classify variables, datasets, populations, samples, and measurement scales in applied research contexts.
- Evaluate sampling methods, sources of bias, data quality, and limitations affecting statistical conclusions.
- Construct and interpret frequency tables, graphical displays, five-number summaries, and measures of center, spread, and position.
- Analyze associations between variables using correlation and introductory regression methods.
- Apply basic probability concepts and sampling distributions to introductory statistical problems.
- Conduct and interpret confidence intervals and hypothesis tests using appropriate statistical procedures.
- Distinguish statistical significance, practical significance, correlation, and causation in context.
- Use statistical software or spreadsheets to produce reproducible analyses and clearly communicate findings to technical and general audiences.
Timetable
| Type | Length | Frequency | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 2 hours | Weekly | All semester |
| Lab | 2 hours | Weekly | All semester |
| Tutorial | 1 hour | Fortnightly | All semester |
Assessment Schedule
| Type | Description | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Assignment | Data analysis assignments (4 × 10%) | 40.00% |
| Test | Midterm test | 20.00% |
| Test | Practical statistical analysis test | 15.00% |
| Exam | Final examination | 25.00% |
Prerequisites
- Requirement 14 NCEA Level 2 Mathematics credits, externally assessed
Teaching Staff & Programs
This course is delivered jointly by faculty from the participating programs listed below. In line with the Douchewater Way, the University of Sexology tailors core instruction directly to each cohort's specific discipline — adapting curriculum to program needs rather than forcing students into a one-size-fits-all model. Learn more about our approach at The Douchewater Way.
