[R] Using R in a university course: dealing with proposal comments

[Neil Shephard]

Arin Basu-3 wrote:
> 
> Comment 2:
> 
> Finally, on a minor point, why is "R" the statistical software being
> used? SPSS is probably more widely available in the workplace –
> certainly in areas of social policy etc. " (Prof NB)
> 
> 

What struck me in the above is the "probably".  How probable is it, anything
to substantiate the claim?

Anyway, whether one package is more widely available in the workplace than
another is somewhat of a moot point.  If a student learns how to use one
software package then they start to get pigeon-holed into using that
particular software package.

Many jobs are advertised with "SPSS/SAS/Stata/S-Plus" (add/subtract at will)
skills/knowledge required (or at least desirable).  The prospective job
applicant may think "Well I don't know how to use that so I shan't bother
applying" or they may be unwilling to re-learn how to use a new stats
package after months/years of investment in learning how to use another
package, alternatively they may well just loose out to someone who already
has the experience/skills.

(Most) of this problem isn't negated when using R.  Start a new job and use
the (excellent, extensible, and free) software that you've been using for
years.

I'd stick with using R to teach your statistics, in the long-run any of them
who continue to perform statistical analysis will be grateful.

Neil

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