Announcement
National Conservation Training Center
Data Analysis I: Concepts and Procedures using R (CSP4200)
Course Dates: January 4-8, 2010
Location: National Conservation Training Center (NCTC)
Shepherdstown, WV
Course Description/Course Overview:
Data Analysis I: Concepts and Procedures using R course will explore the
application of analytical approaches and techniques to provide the student
with a fundamental background necessary for the modeling of biological and
environmental data. In an age of limited resources, it is becoming
increasingly important to monitor and model wildlife populations and the
environment in which they live. As such, biologists are asked to utilize
efficient sampling design and modeling strategies. Statistical methods
form the backbone of most, if not all, approaches to understand data.
Consequently, the purpose of this course is to enhance the scientific
capacity of participants. Skills gained include thinking from a
statistical perspective, increased performance in balancing risks, and
improved scientific decision-making. Additional instructional goals are
enhanced statistical problem-solving capabilities, more efficient
communication with statisticians, more in-depth assessment of reports and
studies in the literature, and strengthened aptitude to continue developing
statistical skills after this class is over. Research has shown that
effective statistical training involves a high level of interaction among
participants and the instructor. The National Conservation Training Center
is well known for its state of the art training facilities and interactive
courses.
Participants in this course have generally had some basic training in
statistics (a course or two in undergraduate or graduate education).
Although many participants have such experience, such experience is not
necessary for taking this course. We begin the course discussing
fundamental principles including random variable types and probability
distributions, sampling and population distributions, bias, precision, the
Central Limit Theorem, making estimations from samples, and hypothesis
testing. Other topics include exploratory data analysis techniques,
descriptive statistics (e.g., measurements of central tendency and
dispersion), data transformations, power analysis, and univariate
parametric and nonparametric inferential statistics: Z-tests, one sample,
two sample, and paired T-tests, sign test, Wilcoxon rank sum test, and an
introduction to categorical data analysis. Participants will use computers
to describe data sets, simulate random variable and sampling distributions,
Type I & II error rates, and confidence intervals, perform power analysis
of experimental designs, and analyze data using inferential statistical
procedures. The general approach is a topic presentation by an instructor,
followed by a instructor-led computer exercise, followed by a “independent”
class computer exercise applying the concepts learned on biological data.
Participants are encouraged to discuss data in which they are currently
engaged with. Although this interaction is encouraged, the purpose of the
course is not of a ‘consulting’ nature.
Instructor: Dr. Timothy J. Robinson (University of Wyoming, Laramie
Campus)
Who Should Attend: The course is designed for individuals who are
competent in basic biology and are interested in developing and/or
strengthening their ability to utilize statistical tools in research,
management, and decision-making.
Course Length: 4 ½ days/36 hours
Course Objectives: The objectives of this course are to develop the
ability to defend rationale of data interpretations
(including the setting of Type I and II error rates);
calculate statistical power; use data description
techniques; identify assumptions of inferential
statistical methods and use proper alternatives if
required; interpret results of statistical procedures;
and provide participants the necessary background to be
successful in Data Analysis II: Ecological Modeling using
R.
Cost: There is no tuition fee for FWS, NPS, and BLM personnel.
Tuition is $1150 for non-FWS participants.
How to Apply: Register on-line at https://doilearn.doi.gov/.
Non-DOI employees should click on “Public Catalog Login” then type the
course code (CSP4200) in the Search box. Then click on the course title.
Questions: Please contact Dr. Joe W. Witt ([email protected]) or So
Lan Ching ([email protected]), Division of Conservation Science
Yours truly,
Joe W. Witt, Ph.D.
Course Leader / Wildlife Biologist
Branch of Conservation Science & Policy
National Conservation Training Center
698 Conservation Way
Shepherdstown, WV 25443
304-876-7447
304-876-7234 (Fax)
