Johns Hopkins University

Statistics For Civic Life II: Statistical Inference

Johns Hopkins University

Statistics For Civic Life II: Statistical Inference

Joseph W. Cutrone, PhD
Justine Stauffer

Instructors: Joseph W. Cutrone, PhD

Top Instructor

Included with Coursera PlusLearn more

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level

Recommended experience

9 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level

Recommended experience

9 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

  • Explore data distributions, correlation, and linear regression models using R and StatKey.

  • Construct and interpret confidence intervals and hypothesis tests using traditional, bootstrap, and randomization methods.

Details to know

Shareable certificate

Add to your LinkedIn profile

Recently updated!

September 2026

Assessments

4 assignments

Taught in English

See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills

 logos of Petrobras, TATA, Danone, Capgemini, P&G and L'Oreal

Build your subject-matter expertise

This course is part of the Statistics for Civic Life Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
  • Learn new concepts from industry experts
  • Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
  • Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
  • Earn a shareable career certificate

There are 4 modules in this course

In this module, you will learn how statisticians use sample data to make informed statements about populations. You will explore the ideas behind confidence intervals and hypothesis tests, building a foundation for understanding how we quantify uncertainty and evaluate evidence in real-world settings. Along the way, you will learn to construct confidence intervals using both traditional and bootstrap methods and interpret statistical results in context. You will also compare different confidence interval methods, confidence levels, and sample sizes to see how they affect statistical conclusions. By examining when bootstrap procedures are appropriate and when statistical results can be misleading, you will learn to think critically about the evidence behind a conclusion rather than simply relying on a calculated number. By the end of the module, you will be better equipped to use statistical inference thoughtfully and communicate what your results actually tell you.

What's included

6 videos1 reading1 assignment

In this module, you will explore how probability distributions can help us approximate and understand statistical inference. You will compare bootstrap and randomization approaches and discover the connection between confidence intervals and hypothesis tests. Using the Normal distribution, you will learn to calculate p-values and confidence intervals while developing a deeper understanding of what these results tell us about a population. You will also learn to distinguish statistical significance from practical significance, an essential skill for deciding whether a result is meaningful beyond simply being statistically detectable. By considering sample size, replication, and study limitations, you will develop the ability to evaluate how reliable a statistical conclusion is and recognize when the evidence may not support a strong claim.

What's included

6 videos1 reading1 assignment

In this module, you will bring together the tools of statistical inference to answer questions about populations and differences between groups. You will learn how to select the appropriate inferential procedure for proportions, means, differences between groups, and paired data, then construct and interpret confidence intervals and hypothesis tests to evaluate what the data can tell us. You will also explore how the Normal and t-distributions, standard error, and the Central Limit Theorem provide the foundation for making these inferences. You will apply these methods to real statistical questions, using p-values and confidence intervals to evaluate claims and distinguish meaningful evidence from chance variation. Throughout the module, you will use R to conduct common inferential analyses, including one- and two-sample tests for proportions and means and paired t-tests. You will also learn to use graphical checks to assess assumptions, helping you make informed and reliable conclusions from statistical data.

What's included

6 videos2 readings1 assignment

In this final module, you will review the core concepts of confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, and statistical inference covered throughout the course. This review provides an opportunity to bring together the key ideas, methods, and interpretation skills you have developed and prepare to apply them independently. You will then complete the Final Exam, which evaluates your understanding of statistical inference and your ability to apply these concepts to statistical questions. Use this final assessment to demonstrate what you have learned and your ability to interpret statistical evidence with confidence.

What's included

3 readings1 assignment

Earn a career certificate

Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV. Share it on social media and in your performance review.

Instructors

Joseph W. Cutrone, PhD
Top Instructor
Johns Hopkins University
28 Courses700,404 learners

Offered by

Explore more from Probability and Statistics

Why people choose Coursera for their career

Felipe M.

Learner since 2018
"To be able to take courses at my own pace and rhythm has been an amazing experience. I can learn whenever it fits my schedule and mood."

Jennifer J.

Learner since 2020
"I directly applied the concepts and skills I learned from my courses to an exciting new project at work."

Larry W.

Learner since 2021
"When I need courses on topics that my university doesn't offer, Coursera is one of the best places to go."

Chaitanya A.

"Learning isn't just about being better at your job: it's so much more than that. Coursera allows me to learn without limits."

Frequently asked questions