Elementary Statistics For Geographers

Introduces the techniques and concepts of statistics in human and physical geography. This book explains not only how to apply quantitative tools but also why and how they work. It helps students gain important skills for utilizing conventional and spatial statistics in their own research, as well as for critically evaluating the work of others.

"The use of statistical techniques in geography received an impetus only after the Second World War. Since then, application of statistical techniques in social sciences has increased enormously making it essential for geographers to acquire training in elementary statistical methods, particularly after the sixties when statistical geography came to occupy a distinct part of the post-graduate syllabus. The main object of this book is to introduce the students to some of the concepts of statistical analytical methods. The fundamentals of statistics have been elaborated so as to make it easily understandable even to those who do not have any background of mathematics. Greater emphasis has been laid on the application of statistical techniques in geography and hence each chapter has been punctuated with illustrations. The book especially deals with problems on standard deviation, probability, variance analysis, correlation, and regression which are indispensable for researchers in geography in general and in the social sciences in particular."

Integrating a discussion of the application of quantitative methods with practical examples, this book explains the philosophy of the quantitative methodologies. It discusses issues such as: the nature of modern quantitative geography; spatial data; geographical information systems; visualization; local analysis; and point pattern analysis.

First published in 1978. For the non-mathematician, however, even the simpler introductory books on statistics often raise considerable problems. In this second edition First, some attention has been given to the problem of the transformation of data in order to reinforce the appreciation of the need for normally-distributed data for the use of so many techniques. Secondly, the use of probability paper, at least in simple terms, has been introduced to illustrate the ways in which the labour of probability assessments can be circumvented. Thirdly, radical changes have been made, plus considerable expansion added, to the theme of non-parametric testing, to provide a more systematic approach to what is a most important group of possible techniques for geographers. Fourthly, change and expansion are also reflected in the sections on correlation and regression, including some simple consideration of curvilinear relationships and the presentation of computational techniques more geared to the use of desk calculators rather than long-hand methods. Finally, the bibliography has also been expanded, to incorporate a wider range of books on techniques and a selection of research papers using such techniques in a geographical (or near-geographical) context.

Practical Statistics for Geographers and Earth Scientists provides an introductory guide to the principles and application of statistical analysis in context. This book helps students to gain the level of competence in statistical procedures necessary for independent investigations, field-work and other projects. The aim is to explain statistical techniques using data relating to relevant geographical, geospatial, earth and environmental science examples, employing graphics as well as mathematical notation for maximum clarity. Advice is given on asking the appropriate preliminary research questions to ensure that the correct data is collected for the chosen statistical analysis method. The book offers a practical guide to making the transition from understanding principles of spatial and non-spatial statistical techniques to planning a series analyses and generating results using statistical and spreadsheet computer software. Learning outcomes included in each chapter International focus Explains the underlying mathematical basis of spatial and non-spatial statistics Provides an geographical, geospatial, earth and environmental science context for the use of statistical methods Written in an accessible, user-friendly style Datasets available on accompanying website at www.wiley.com/go/Walford