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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