CMNS 261 Statistical Sources

Sylvia Roberts

Liaison Librarian for CMNS September 2009

CMNS 261 - September 2009

Purpose of assignment

To help you: Gain familiarity with research for

statistical sources of information Use statistical information effectively

in the exploration of a research question

Introduce CMNS 261 research guide

CMNS 261 - September 2009

Why be statistically fluent?

“Objective statistical information is vital to an open and democratic society. It provides a solid foundation for informed decisions by elected representatives, businesses, unions and non-profit organizations, as well as individual Canadians.”

<http://www.statcan.ca/english/about/overview.htm>

CMNS 261 - September 2009

Assessing the source WHO has created/gathered the statistic For WHAT PURPOSE METHODOLOGICAL issues

Analytical method and measurements used Definitions (variables, statistical units,

classifications) Currency and scope of data Graphical representation Complete or selective use of information

For example….

CMNS 261 - September 2009

Research process

1. Explore statistical aspects of a broad topic in secondary sources

2. Pinpoint a researchable question

3. Identify and find statistical overviews

4. Identify and find detailed statistical analysis in primary sources

5. Write report using resources found

6. Cite sources

CMNS 261 - September 2009

Researchable question

Choose a specific question relating to: Immigration Home ownership Internet access E-commerce / online shopping Child poverty Violent crimes

Focus on recent trends over 2-3 years

CMNS 261 - September 2009

Researchable question

Possible dimensions to explore: Specificity Geography Chronology Demography Interconnectivity of factors

Primary or secondary source?

CMNS 261 - September 2009

CMNS 261 - September 2009

Primary sources

Statistics Canada primary federal agency VERY credible source

Statistical data also: Gathered by other government agencies in different

jurisdictions and with specialized interests Produced as research outcomes by scholars Produced and cited by interest groups Reported by journalists in news media

CMNS 261 - September 2009

Secondary sources

Newspapers & news magazines Canadian Newsstand CBCA Complete Academic search elite

Academic journal sources

CMNS 261 Research Guides

CMNS 261 - September 2009

QUESTIONS?GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR RESEARCH!