Resources for Introductory Statistics

Initial Publication Date: December 21, 2006


Below we provide information and links to topics in statistics that may be appropriate for your students. The Glossary from HyperStat ( This site may be offline. ) is also a potentially useful resource.

  • Basic statistical calculations, such as the calculation of the mean, variance, and standard deviation, are fundamental to the analysis of most data. Learn more here

  • The central limit theorem is intimately related to the idea that an increase in sample size improves the estimate for the mean value of a population Learn more here

  • Covariance and correlation between two data sets (bivariate data) may also be appropriately introduced in your course. Learn more here

  • The t-distribution and t-statistics are useful in establishing confidence limits (error bars) for a sample mean, or for the slope and intercept values calculated from a least squares linear regression. Learn more here

  • Least Squares Linear Regression is often introduced in introductory courses to varying degrees of mathematical sophistication. Learn more here
  • Fourier transforms of time series or spatial data are used throughout the geosciences. Consider providing your introductory-level students with some familiarity of this essential analysis tool. Learn more here