basisstatistiek

Basisstatistiek is a term used in Dutch-speaking contexts to denote the foundational course of statistics that introduces concepts and methods for collecting, organizing, describing, and analyzing data, as well as for making inferences from samples. The subject combines descriptive statistics, probability, and elementary statistical inference, and provides the toolkit for interpreting quantitative information in research and everyday decision making.

Descriptive statistics covers how to summarize data and present it meaningfully. This includes measures of central tendency (mean, median, mode), measures of dispersion (range, variance, standard deviation, interquartile range), and data visualization (histograms, bar charts, box plots). Data types are distinguished between qualitative (nominal, ordinal) and quantitative (discrete, continuous).

Probability and distributions form another core component. Students learn basic probability rules, independence, conditional probability, and the use of common distributions such as the normal, binomial, and Poisson as models for real phenomena. Sampling concepts explain how data are gathered from populations, including random sampling, stratified sampling, and potential biases.

Inference introduces estimation and tests. Point estimates and interval estimates (confidence intervals) quantify uncertainty, while hypothesis testing uses p-values and significance levels to decide whether observed effects are compatible with a null hypothesis. Basic tests include t-tests, chi-squared tests, and simple linear regression.

Basisstatistiek emphasizes clear interpretation, critical thinking, and the responsible use of statistics in decision making, while laying the groundwork for more advanced statistical methods.