METASTATS: behavioral science statistics for Microsoft Windows and the HP49G programmable calculator

Area of Science:

• Statistical Software
• Biostatistics
• Quantitative Research Methods

Background:

• Commercial statistical software often lacks comprehensive meta-analysis and effect size calculation tools.
• Researchers require accessible, user-friendly tools for statistical analysis on various platforms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce METASTATS, a freeware suite of 150 statistical programs.
• To provide tools for meta-analysis, power calculations, effect sizes, and statistical conversions.
• To offer a user-friendly and well-documented alternative to commercial statistical software.

Main Methods:

• Development of a suite of approximately 150 statistical programs.
• Compatibility with HP49G calculators and Windows PC emulators.
• Implementation of a user-friendly interface with screen prompts and labeled output.

Main Results:

• METASTATS offers a wide range of statistical functionalities, including meta-analysis and effect size calculations.
• The software addresses identified gaps in currently available commercial statistical packages.
• Both calculator and PC versions are available, along with comprehensive documentation and installation guides.

Conclusions:

• METASTATS provides a valuable, free resource for researchers needing statistical analysis tools.
• The software's accessibility and comprehensive features make it a practical choice for various research applications.
• Freely available online, METASTATS enhances statistical analysis capabilities for a broad audience.