STA210 Statistics for Social Impact & Program Evaluation
This course introduces students to applied statistical reasoning for evaluating social impact, program effectiveness, and organizational decision-making. Students develop practical skills in data collection, descriptive and inferential statistics, survey design, basic data visualization, and interpretation of quantitative evidence. Emphasis is placed on ethical data use, critical evaluation of research claims, and communicating findings clearly to stakeholders. Through hands-on projects connected to real-world nonprofit, and community contexts, students learn to use quantitative tools to assess outcomes, improve programs, and support evidence-based leadership decisions. No advanced mathematics background is required.
Credits: 3
Student learning outcomes
- Collect and organize quantitative data using appropriate sampling methods, survey instruments, and basic data management practices.
- Apply descriptive and introductory inferential statistical techniques to summarize, visualize, and interpret datasets in social and ministry contexts.
- Evaluate the credibility, assumptions, and limitations of quantitative claims found in research studies, media, and organizational reports.
- Communicate statistical findings clearly, accurately, and ethically through written, visual, and oral formats for non-technical audiences.
- Design and interpret a basic program evaluation or impact assessment aligned with a real organizational or ministry context.