I am looking for Statistics

1. Data vs Statistics

The first thing you need to ask yourself: am I looking for Statistics or do I actually want Data? In normal society, the two terms are used interchangeably and mean the same thing. In academia, they mean different things.

Data is the raw information and has no context. They often appear in Excel or .csv files which you can use in a statistical or geospatial software program (such as SPSS, Stata or ArcGIS).

Image:

(Source: City of Ottawa Open Data)

Statistics interpret and summarize the raw data. It gives raw information context and are normally shown in a chart or a graph. They will also appear in publications which provides textual information.

Image:

(Source: Statistics Canada)

2. To find Data via Carleton Library:

Carleton Library offers Data Services. You can access data from Odesi (ensure you are logged in with your MC1 account).

Data Services includes:

• Stata assistance with a consultant
• SPSS assistance with a consultant
• Online help

3. To find Statistics via Carleton Library

You can find statistics related to specific disciplines. Business and marketing statistics, social statistics, government statistics, public policy and financial. The list goes on and on. Here are a few of our subject guides that includes statistics on specific topics. You can refer to other guides on the library website.

• Business
• Climate Change
• Company & Industry
• Food Science and Nutrition
• Economic Indicators
• Government Information
• Health Care
• Justice Administration: Public Policy and Statistics
• Labour and Employment
• Trade
• Transportation

4. Think Tanks

Think Tanks are a body of experts who provide research and advocacy on topics related to finance, society, culture, and politics.

They are often non-partisan and not for profit.