Applied Statistics

DESCRIPTION:
Organizing and summarizing data. Probability distributions: binomial, Poisson, normal, t-distribution, chi-square. Sampling and sampling distribution of the mean. The central limit theorem. Parametric tests for one mean and for the difference between two means. Test for independence of two qualitative/categorical variables. Simple and multiple correlation and regression.

RATIONALE: 
The course provides foundation knowledge on quantitative analysis. The students learn to summarize and describe data, calculate probabilities using the binomial, Poisson and normal distributions, construct confidence intervals, perform basic tests of hypothesis, examine two variables for correlation, and use the least squares method for fitting regression equations to a set of data.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: 
1. Summarize a set of data by constructing a frequency distribution table and obtain a graphical representation with the use of bar charts, pie charts and histograms.
2. Find and interpret measures of location (mean, median, mode, percentile) and measures of variation (range, standard deviation, variance) for a sample or population.
3. Apply probability distributions (binomial, Poisson, normal) to determine probabilities of random events.
4. Construct confidence intervals and apply tests of hypothesis concerning one mean, and two means (independent and dependent samples cases)
5. Apply the test for independence of two qualitative/categorical variables.
6. Apply simple and multiple correlation and regression.
7. Utilize EXCEL for data presentation and probability calculation and interpret relevant outputs.

METHOD OF TEACHING AND LEARNING:
In congruence with the teaching and learning strategy of the college, the following tools are used:
- Class lectures, interactive learning (class discussion, group work), video presentations, and practical problems solved in class.
- Lab periods will be used to cover probability theory and enhance concepts.
- Exercises and primary source documents are assigned as homework, the solutions of which are reviewed in class.
- Office hours: Students are encouraged to make full use of the office hours of their instructor, where they can ask questions, see their exam paper, and/or go over lecture material.
- Use of the blackboard site, where instructors post lecture notes, assignment instructions, timely announcements, as well as additional resources.