Statistics?

The second half of my class on communication theory focused mostly on methods for data analysis, with a particular emphasis on quantitative data. This included using descriptive statistics such as the mean, median, and range, as well as delving into probability theory and learning about significance testing, such as Pearson's r and the t test.

I must admit, at first I was a bit apprehensive at the thought of returning to the dreaded subject of Statistics. I took a course in Statistics early on in my undergraduate studies, and needless to say, it was not a very pleasant experience. I definitely tend to gravitate intellectually more towards the liberal arts subjects than to mathematics. However, when seen in the context of social research, I soon understand the value, and indeed, the power, of using statistical theory to help support research models and arguments. While I still would not say that Statistics is a subject I'm particularly found of, I at least can now approach it with a deeper level of appreciation.