1304.5 - Stats Talk WA (Newsletter), Jul 2006  
ARCHIVED ISSUE Released at 11:30 AM (CANBERRA TIME) 31/08/2006   
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About ABS Training Courses

Basic Statistical Analysis (16 & 17 August)

This two-day computer-based course develops practical skills in basic statistical and graphical data analysis techniques using Excel pivot tables.

It aims to equip participants with the skills to:

  • identify the steps involved in data analysis;
  • summarise and display survey data in graphical and tabular form;
  • find simple relationships in survey data; and
  • test for statistically significant differences between survey results.

The course is particularly suited to those who need to learn how to analyse and describe data that has been collected in surveys. Previous spreadsheet experience is recommended.

Using SuperTable (14 September)

This half-day computer-based workshop aims to provide participants with the skills to use this powerful software for manipulating multi-dimensional ABS datasets (data cubes). SuperTable software is used to create tables that can be easily converted to Excel format. As the ABS is progressively releasing more data in SuperTable format, users of data cubes will need to be familiar with SuperTable.

This workshop will equip participants with the skills to:
  • access SuperTable;
  • create basic tables; and
  • manipulate data.

The course would be useful for ABS data cube users, especially WA Government employees with access to ABS@ who have little or no experience with SuperTable.
    Making Quality Informed Decisions (19 October)

    Understanding quality issues associated with using data sources is important for effective policy-based decision making. This one-day course uses a combination of theoretical instruction and group exercises to illustrate the fundamentals of data quality assessment.

    It covers:
    • using a quality framework to determine data needs in the context of
    policy decision making;
    • evaluating the quality and limitations of data sources; and
    • applying risk management concepts to making informed decisions.

    It is suitable for people who analyse and use data from a wide range of sources or wish to improve the quality of their organisation's data collections.


    Turning Data Into Information (15 & 16 November)

    This two-day course develops skills in transforming data into meaningful written information, including:
    • understanding how the collection and compilation of data affects its usefulness, quality and relevance;
    • understanding various statistical techniques for use in data analysis;
    • communicating results and writing effective reports; and
    • constructing meaningful graphs and tables.

    The course is best suited to people involved in using data to produce a reports or social commentary, or with analysing and describing data that has been collected in surveys or through administrative processes.

    These courses are all conducted in the Perth ABS Office. If you live outside Perth and you are interested in having a course conducted in your town, please let me know. For any further information about any of these courses, or ABS Statistical Training in general, please contact Amy Gardos (Ph) 9360 5391 or email: amy.gardos@abs.gov.au