SPSS in 15 Minutes

Introduction

• Presenter: Alexander
• Objective: Teach how to use SPSS in under 15 minutes.
• Topics Covered:
  • Defining variables
  • Entering data
  • Analyzing data using descriptive statistics (frequencies and summary statistics)

SPSS Interface

• Similar to Microsoft Excel (spreadsheet format)
• Two main views:
  • Data View: Displays actual data
  • Variable View: Where to define and edit variables

Defining Variables

1. Creating Variables

   • No spaces, symbols, or special characters in variable names.
   • Example: Interview ID
   • Variable Type: Numeric (for Interview ID)
   • Width: Maximum characters allowed (suggested: 8)
   • Decimals: Set to zero for whole numbers.
   • Label: Description of variable (e.g., "Interview ID")
   • Measurement Level:
     • Scale: Quantitative data (e.g., age)
     • Ordinal: Ordered categories (e.g., education level)
     • Nominal: Unordered categories (e.g., gender, race)

2. Example Variables:

   • Interview ID: Nominal variable (random numbers assigned)
   • Name: String (text variable)
   • Gender: Numeric (1 = Male, 2 = Female) - Nominal
   • Age: Scale variable (quantitative)
   • Did you eat rice in the past seven days?: Numeric (0 = No, 1 = Yes) - Ordinal

Entering Data

• Switch to Data View to enter data.
• Enable value labels to show descriptive text (e.g., Male, Female instead of numbers).

Analyzing Data

1. Descriptive Statistics:

   • Go to Analyze > Descriptive Statistics > Frequencies.
   • Suitable for categorical variables (e.g., gender).
   • Use charts (e.g., bar charts) for visual representation.
   • Example results: 10 males and 10 females; 12 yes and 8 no for rice consumption.

2. Continuous Variables Analysis:

   • Use Statistics section in the Frequencies menu for continuous variables (e.g., age).
   • Metrics to calculate: Mean, Median, Standard Deviation, Range, Quartiles.
   • Create histograms for continuous data, showing normal distribution.
   • Results Example: Average age = 20, Median age = 21, Standard Deviation = 3.5.

Conclusion

• For more learning, visit the YouTube channel or the website: uniquemartymedia.net/learning.
• Total time: Under 15 minutes.