Datagen: A Basic Program for Generating and Analyzing Data for Use in Statistics Courses

Abstract

A BASIC program (DATAGEN) for use by instructors of statistics courses is described. DATAGEN generates unique data samples (independent or correlated) for each student from populations with parameters specified by the instructor. The program also provides the instructor with summary statistics for each generated sample. In addition, for independent data, a one-factor, completely randomized ANOVA is available. For correlated data, the program calculates prediction equations and t values for the significance of the difference between means and for the significance of the obtained correlation coefficient. DATAGEN facilitates the demonstration of some fundamental statistical concepts and encourages students to work independently.