290105 VU Introduction into Statistical Data Analysis in Geography I (2008W)

The goal of this course is for students to learn quantitative and comparative analysis techniques applied in geographic research. Main objectives are methods and concepts of uni- and bivariate data analysis. Rather than require prior expertise in methods and statistics, the course will impart the necessary skills in the process of carrying out actual analyses of real data sets. Students will learn how to design a research project, formulate testable hypotheses and analyze variables, design and interpret tables, apply statistical and comparative techniques to test hypotheses, and assess the advantages and limitations inherent to positivistic research strategies of the kind carried out in this course.