Statistics-in-research-mama.docx

Statistics in Research – a Reflection Paper STAT 218 Thursday, 5:30 – 8:30pm Submitted by Sheila Reyes – Liboon Student no. 2017-15382 Master in Social Work in Social Work (MSWSS) Practice in Health Care Statistics is a foreign word and subject to me considering that at first, I have no inkling or even the slightest background on the subject. Hence, when I enrolled this subject as a requirement of my graduate studies pursuing MSWSS. I took this into myself as a challenge, an opportunity to learn, and widen my circle of friends. I was not disappointed with my expectations. I will forever be grateful to our professor, Dr. Yabut for her patience in teaching us the basics of Statistics and its practical applications. For my classmates whose friendships I will treasure! Statistics is an exact science that delves more on numbers and analysis. The interpretation of the data is also of utmost importance considering that the outcome of surveys in relation to statistics is used as basis in decision – making process of the end-user. The knowledge on statistics developed in me that appreciation of its application in prediction using probabilities, and the outcome of certain actions. In this way, I am confident that my decisions are supported by facts and data using the learning from Statistics. Initially, I admittedly do not see the immediate use of statistics in my career as a dentist. I admit that I have encountered difficulties in the conduct of the subject since I do not even have an undergraduate subjects on statistics and use of computers. I even have to ask assistance from my husband and children in using the Microsoft Word, scanning and sending emails. And, there was instance during assessment, I was at loss for answers to the questions. In addition, I have to survive the horrendous traffic just to reach Mendiola. The weekday class schedule was also a hassle since this means that I have to go on under time from my job. I still prefer the weekend class schedule. In summary, I was asked by my husband, “Why am I pursuing the graduate studies in Social Works?” My immediate answer was, it is not really for material gain but the graduate school developed in me that contentment and happiness, knowing that I prepare and equip myself further to become an instrument of service to other people!

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