By Dr Joseph Oluwatayo Osakuade & Dr Mercy Ifunanya
Abstract
Research plays a significant role in human existence. Statistics also form an integral part of educational research. In contemporary society, Computer Statistical packages make data analysis easier, faster and accurate. This study investigated the attitudes of Nigerian undergraduates towards Statistics and their perceived competence in the use of computer statistical packages for data analysis. In finding solutions to the problem of this study, two research questions were raised and three hypotheses generated. Descriptive research design of the survey type was the design upon which the study was anchored. Two hundred (200) final year education undergraduates of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria were randomly selected for the study. A questionnaire was the instrument for data collection. Both Descriptive and Inferential Statistics were used for data analysis. Findings revealed that majority of Nigerian undergraduates have moderate attitudes towards statistics and are moderately competent in the use of computer statistical packages for data analysis. It was recommended that lecturers should devise means of making Statistics course more enjoyable and less threatening to the students. Computer Statistical packages should also be taught as a course in Nigerian universities.