Knowledge Discovery in the Social Sciences

Knowledge Discovery in the Social Scienceshelps readers findvalid, meaningful, and useful information. It is written for researchers and data analysts as well as studentswho have no prior experience in statistics or computer science. Suitable for a variety of classes-including upper-division courses for undergraduates, introductory courses for graduate students, and courses in data management and advanced statistical methods-the book guides readers in the application of data mining techniques and illustrates the significance ofnewlydiscovered knowledge. Readers will learn to: *appreciate the role of data mining in scientific research *develop an understanding of fundamental concepts of data mining and knowledge discovery *use software to carry out data mining tasks *select and assess appropriate models to ensure findings are valid and meaningful *develop basic skills in data preparation, data mining, model selection, and validation * apply concepts with end-of-chapter exercises and review summaries