Statistical Tests (Data Analysis Methods) by S. M. Munsaka, BSc., MSc., PhD - Department of Biomedical Sciences School of Health Sciences University of Zambia - Research Methodology, Biostatistics and Epidemiology-unza

Description

This academic document is a comprehensive lecture presentation on Statistical Tests (Data Analysis Methods) for the Research Methodology, Biostatistics and Epidemiology course (BMS 4430). It is authored by S. M. Munsaka, BSc., MSc., PhD, of the Department of Biomedical Sciences within the School of Health Sciences at the University of Zambia. The material serves as critical tertiary revision material for university students, covering the foundational principles and applications of biostatistics in biomedical research. It details the importance of measurement, classifies types of variables (categorical, ordinal, continuous, discrete), and explains key concepts such as dependent and independent variables. The core of the document is a systematic guide to selecting and applying appropriate statistical tests, including Student's t-test, ANOVA, chi-square tests, correlation analysis (Pearson and Spearman), and various regression models (linear, logistic). It provides clear decision frameworks, formulas, assumptions, and worked examples for each test, emphasizing the link between research questions, specific aims, and statistical methodology. This resource is invaluable for University of Zambia students pursuing diplomas or degrees in Biomedical Sciences, Public Health, or related fields, aiding in exam preparation, research project design, and data analysis for theses. It helps students and researchers master the selection of correct tests, interpret results accurately, and avoid common analytical pitfalls, thereby supporting rigorous scientific inquiry. Download these notes to strengthen your statistical reasoning and enhance your academic and research capabilities.