Using quantitative methods
If you are planning to use quantitative methods in your dissertation these resources are designed to help you. Please note that we can only provide general guidelines and you should always check that your supervisor is happy with your approach.
This document poses some questions that you need to think about before you start your dissertation.
This is a short guide to planning a survey.
Statistics
Statistics underpins research in many subject areas and you might need to include some statistical analysis in your final-year dissertation.
This glossary provides a brief explanation of some terms that are commonly used in statistics.
This flowchart gives a quick guide to choosing the appropriate statistical test for your data and research question. It includes brief instructions on using Minitab and SPSS to perform the tests. It is designed for you to work through following the links on the slides rather than the side menu.
The Learning Enhancement Team can usually offer MSN workshops on request for groups of three students or more. Workshops are one hour long. You can see the list of workshops available here.
To request an MSN workshop please complete this form.
You can also request a group tutorial for three or more students who want help with the same topic.
If you need further help or information please contact us at numeracy@mdx.ac.uk
You can download the statistical analysis software below from the Middlesex University download server or link to it as indictated.
We have created a Linkedin Learning Collection of courses to teach you how to use Nvivo, SPSS, Minitab and SurveyMonkey.
Nvivo allows a researcher to work with rich information, where deep levels of analysis on both small and large volumes of data are required. "It removes .. tasks associated with analysis, like classifying, sorting and arranging information, so you have more time to explore trends, build and test theories and ultimately arrive at answers to questions." It is often used for analyzing qualitative data from interviews.
SPSS: "Customers use SPSS to anticipate change, manage both daily operations and special initiatives more effectively, and realize positive, measurable benefits."
Minitab: "The leading statistical software used to improve quality worldwide."
Oxmetrics is "an integrated solution for the econometric analysis of time series, forecasting, financial econometric modelling, or statistical analysis of cross section and panel data"
STATA, "a complete, integrated statistical software package that provides everything you need for data analysis, data management, and graphics".
Momentive (formerly SurveyMonkey): This survey software is replacing Qualtrics from November 2022