Statistics to Support Research: Evaluating Statistics

It is possible to lie with statistics.

• Because of this, it's important to evaluate statistics so that you are not manipulated into believing claims backed up by numbers, facts, and figures.
• If you find statistics at a website, use Evaluating Information to help you decide whether the website is a good source of information.
• You don't have to be a math genius to evaluate statistics!  How to Evaluate Bad Statistics and Research Methods - http://www.esc.edu/library/how-tos-list/evaluate-statistics/ Thank you to SUNY Empire State College.

The materials below are available to CSCC students, faculty, and staff  with your Cougar ID number.

• "Telling the Truth about Damned Lies and Statistics".
• More Damned Lies and Statistics: How Numbers Confuse Public Issues (eBook)
• "How to Understand the Bias of a Publication."  This article briefly looks at politcal bias and how it applies to websites.

• Damned Lies and Statistics: Untangling Numbers from the Media, Politicians, and Activists (may be requested through OhioLINK).
• View this video in our collection, Media Truth or Fiction: What Can You Believe? (VHS format) VCR's are available in the library for viewing on the 3rd floor.