Statistics and Data

The Maps, Data & Government Information Centre (MaDGIC)  provides access to quantitative research data for various disciplines in the social sciences, humanities and life sciences. We have access to a wide range and level of information including statistics, aggregate data, and microdata.

Statistics are derived from data, and usually come in the form of a single number, table or chart.

Aggregate data are statistical summaries (processed data) organized in a specific data file structure that permits further computer analysis or processing. Aggregate data can be found in many formats, including Beyond 20/20, spreadsheets, databases etc. 

Microdata comprise of information on each individual, household, business, etc., responding to a survey, with codes (usually numbers) representing the response to each question asked. Microdata require processing before they become ready for interpretation. In order to make use of a microdata file, metadata must be consulted to identify variables and other information about the file. Microdata are normally analysed and interpreted using statistical software (such as SPSS or STATA) and cover a wide range of topics: socio-demographic data, public opinion polls, environment, health, economics, and more. Most of Trent Library's microdata comes from Statistics Canada's surveys, such as, for example: Aboriginal Peoples Survey, Canadian Community Health Survey, National Graduates Survey,  Survey of Labour and Income Dynamics and much more.

For Assistance

MaDGIC staff provide assistance with the location, retrieval, and use of statistics and data files in our collection, as well as acquisition of data files held elsewhere. We are also interested in the development of quantitative literacy and pleased to provide workshops on finding and retrieving data and statistics to courses.

Contact MaDGIC