Overview

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Explore the essential foundations of statistical analysis for political science and international relations using IBM SPSS Statistics. Learn about research approaches, data sources, and the basics of working with SPSS. This course introduces learners to the core concepts of social science research and the practical use of IBM SPSS Statistics. You will examine key philosophical approaches to research, understand the research cycle, and become familiar with important data sources in political science. The course then guides you through the SPSS interface, data management, and the principles of measurement, preparing you to confidently handle and describe categorical data. Through clear explanations and practical demonstrations, this course builds a strong foundation in both research methodology and SPSS skills. Learners will gain the confidence to approach data analysis in political science and international relations with a critical and informed perspective. This course is part one of a three-course Specialization designed to build a complete and cohesive understanding of the subject. While it offers valuable skills on its own, you'll gain the most benefit by progressing through all three courses as a structured learning journey. This course is based on Statistics for Politics and International Relations Using IBM SPSS Statistics, by Helen M. Williams. Copyright ©2020 by Sage Publications Limited. All rights reserved, including rights for text and data mining and training of artificial technologies or similar technologies. Published by Sage Publications Limited, London. Used by arrangement with Sage Publications Limited.

Syllabus

Introduction
- This module introduces foundational statistical concepts and their application in political analysis, helping learners build confidence in using statistical tools like SPSS for data interpretation and analysis.
Approaches to the Social World
- This module explores the philosophical foundations of research, including ontology, epistemology, and methodology. It explains how these concepts influence research design, data collection, and interpretation. Learners will gain an understanding of how different approaches shape the research process.
Getting Started with SPSS
- This module introduces learners to the SPSS software environment, focusing on its core windows, data management, and the classification of variables. It covers the basics of data entry, analysis, and the importance of proper syntax and data representation. By the end, learners will be able to navigate SPSS confidently and understand the foundational principles of data handling.
Describing Categorical Data
- This module equips learners with the skills to create, interpret, and format frequency tables and crosstabs for categorical data. It covers techniques for recoding variables and adjusting table appearances to meet professional standards in social statistics.