An Introductory Guide to R: Easing the Learning Curve

＂A friendly, straightforward guide that does not assume knowledge of programming, this book helps new R users hit the ground running. Eric L. Einspruch provides an overview of the software and shows how to download and install R, RStudio, and R packages. Featuring example code, screenshots, tips, learning exercises, and worked-through examples of statistical techniques, the book demonstrates the capabilities and nuances of these powerful free statistical analysis and data visualization tools. Fundamental aspects of data wrangling, analysis, visualization, and reporting are introduced, using both Base R and Tidyverse approaches. Einspruch emphasizes processes that support research reproducibility, such as use of comments to document R code and use of R Markdown capabilities. The book also helps readers navigate the vast array of R resources available to further develop their skills. ＂--

Eric L. Einspruch, PhD, is an independent researcher and program evaluator based in Oregon. Since the 1980s, Dr. Einspruch has led, managed, and conducted a wide variety of studies to inform policy development and program improvement. As an adjunct professor at Portland State University and elsewhere, he has taught graduate, undergraduate, and certificate courses in the areas of program evaluation, research methods, data analysis, and emergency preparedness. Dr. Einspruch’s work has appeared in peer-reviewed journal articles, books, and book chapters. He is the recipient of Portland State University’s inaugural Adjunct Excellence Award for Research, and, with his coauthors, received the Helen Tobin Writers’ Award for an article published in the Journal for Nurses in Staff Development. Dr. Einspruch was among the organizers of the Oregon Program Evaluators Network, a local affiliate of the American Evaluation Association, and served as its charter secretary during its first 2 years and as its fifth president. He is an avid learner of new ideas, information, and skills who enjoys helping others advance their own learning. His website is www.eleconsulting.com.