An introductory excursion into statistics

Abstract

Statistical analysis is probably the kind of research most suited to a spare time research worker. All that is actually needed for minor surveys is: a reliable source of information, a fair amount of patience and more often than not, a calculating machine. Most of our students graduate with little knowledge of statistical terms and methods and consequently, very little statistical work has been produced in these islands. This is a great loss, especially when one considers how Malta, being a small island, would be an ideal site to carry out statistical surveys. The purpose of this article is not to substitute such an introductory course on statistics, but to clarify a few basic terms commonly used in statistical work.