Data, Statistics, and Statistical Methods

Students new to research often find some of the terms and concepts confusing as some of the terms may be used interchangeably in different areas of research, such as data and statistics. However,when reviewing scholarly research,it is important to understand the differences between some key terms. [Remember: do not confuse the terms below with tools that are used to analyze the data, such as: SAS, SPSS, SUDAAN, STATA, NVivo, Epi Info, EXCEL., etc. These are the analysis tools that are used analyze the data, they are not statistics or data themselves 

For this discussion, I want you to take on the role of the instructor and explain the difference between the following terms: data, statistics, statistical methods

You may wish go back and visit one of the early topics in the book, Empirical Research, as well as this week's required reading.Outside reading is also recommended. Iwant to "hear" that you have a good understanding of these terms and the differences betwen them as you prepare to complete the next part of your Article Analysis

This course is about recognizing and using evidence. So, in order to earn full points, you will need to support each of your postings with the appropriate evidence, including citations and references as needed.