02225 - Psychometric Statistics

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of the training activity, the student:

a) is familiar with data analysis techniques used in psychology;

b) knows how to select the appropriate statistical analysis procedure;

c) is able to interpret the results of the data analyses.

Course contents

The course is organized into two parts. For each topic covered, the following aspects are examined in depth: theoretical and formal foundations, applicability, and practical examples of use.

Course introduction

Course overview and introduction to software tools (JASP)

Part I: Probability and Descriptive Statistics (30 hours)

• Probability: definitions and properties
• Probability distributions
• Measures of central tendency
• Measures of variability

Part II: Statistical Inference (30 hours)

Parametric tests

• Pearson correlation analysis
• Linear regression analysis I
• ndependent-samples and paired-samples t-tests
• One-way and multi-way analysis of variance (ANOVA)
• Repeated-measures analysis of variance

Non-parametric tests

• Spearman correlation analysis
• Contingency tables,Chi-square test, Fisher's exact test
• Sign test
• Rank tests

Readings/Bibliography

Howitt D., Cramer D. (2020) *Introduzione alla statistica per psicologia* (7th edition; edited by M. Benassi, R. Bolzani, G. Rossi). Pearson, Milan-Turin.

Teaching materials provided by the instructor and available on the university platform at virtuale.unibo.it

Recommended supplementary readings:

Popper K. (2010), *La logica della scoperta scientifica*, Einaudi Galavotti M.C. (2000), *Probabilità*, La Nuova Italia

Teaching methods

Lectures and group discussion seminars. Given the numerous in-depth examples covered in class, active attendance is recommended. Students with specific needs may contact the instructor to arrange appropriate support measures in collaboration with the University's service for students with disabilities, special needs  and specific learning disorders (SLD).

Assessment methods

The exam is conducted orally. The oral exam assesses the achievement of course objectives and the mastery of content covered during lectures and through the in-depth study of course materials. All course topics are subject to examination and carry equal weight. Three questions will be asked. The final grade—with a maximum of 30 *cum laude*—is calculated by averaging the scores assigned to each question. Questions are evaluated based on the following criteria: completeness of the answer, appropriateness of language and terminology, and clarity of presentation. The scores assigned to each question are as follows: 0 points: missing or completely incorrect answer; completely incorrect or unclear terminology; 1–3 points: answer significantly lacking in completeness, clarity, and terminological accuracy; 4–6 points: answer partially coherent but insufficiently developed, or containing a mix of correct and significantly incorrect elements; 6–8 points: correct answer (ranging from sufficient to good) but not exhaustive, superficial, or incomplete; or a lack of clear logical connections between the concepts presented; 9–10 points and *cum laude*: correct, exhaustive, and well-argued answer, demonstrating a clear and in-depth understanding of the concepts and their interrelationships. The maximum grade for each question is 30 *cum laude*. The minimum score required for each question—and to pass the exam—is 18. A sufficient level of preparation results in a grade between 18 and 21; fair preparation results in a grade between 22 and 25; good preparation results in a grade between 26 and 29; and excellent preparation results in a grade between 30 and 30 *cum laude*. Given the numerous in-depth examples discussed in class, active attendance is strongly recommended. All students are permitted to use aids for calculations. Students with specific learning disabilities (SLD) or temporary/permanent disabilities are advised to contact the relevant University office ([https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/it]) well in advance; that office will propose any necessary accommodations, which must then be submitted to the instructor for approval at least 15 days beforehand. The instructor will evaluate the appropriateness of such accommodations in light of the course's learning objectives. To take the exam, students must register via the online system, strictly adhering to the established deadlines. Students unable to register by the deadline due to technical issues must promptly notify the academic program office (and in any case, before the registration lists officially close). The instructor reserves the right to decide whether to admit them to the exam.

Teaching tools

The lectures are supported by various materials available on the virtual.unibo.it website, such as slides, examples, and scientific articles. Examples and practical exercises will be carried out using JASP software; therefore, it is recommended to install it on your computer (https://jasp-stats.org/).

Office hours

See the website of Mariagrazia Benassi