Course content

Introduction to the statistical software package SPSS. Descriptive statistic for continuous and categorical variables (measures of location and spread, frequency tables, graphical display), probability and probability distributions, estimation, hypothesis testing, one- and two-sample tests on mean values (Student T-test), non-parametric tests (Wilcoxon signed-rank test and Mann-Whitney U test), tests on differences in proportions (cross-table analysis; chi-square test and McNemar’s test, Fisher’s exact test), correlation and simple linear regression, methods for assessing agreement (Kappa coefficient, Bland-Altman plot).

Learning outcome

After completing the course KLH3100, the student should be able to
-select appropriate summary statistics and graphical displays for describing data for continuous and categorical variables in an empirical data set
-describe and apply statistical methods for comparing a mean value or a proportion in one sample to a reference value, and for comparing mean values or proportions in two independent or paired samples
-describe and apply the methods of correlation and simple linear regression for identifying associations or relationships between two continuous variables, and methods for evaluating agreement in repeated measures for continuous and categorical data
-select the appropriate statistical method for analyzing a specific research question, study design and data set
-perform statistical analyses to an empirical data set by means of a statistical software package (SPSS)
-interpret and present the results from statistical analyses, and critically evaluate the validity of the results in light of the assumptions for the chosen method

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and exercises. Approved exercises from the same or previous semesters are required to sit for the exam. Approved compulsory activities are valid for three subsequent semesters after approval.

Compulsory assignments

• Exercises

Required previous knowledge

The course is primarily intended for students admitted to a 2-year master's programme at the Faculty of Medicine, NTNU. Other students may be accepted after an individual evaluation.

Course materials

Textbook by Martin Bland: An introduction to medical statistics, Oxford University Press (2015). Changes in textbook, and additional course material, will be announced at start of semester.

Credit reductions