STAT 1201
Introduction to Probability and Statistics
3.0 Credits
Description
STAT 1201 (previously STAT102) is an introductory course on the concepts and methods of statistics, covering topics such as variability, data analysis, probability, estimation and hypothesis testing.
Many jobs or professions require you to make objective decisions based upon statistical data. To help you make these kinds of decisions, this course shows you how to collect, analyze, and interpret data correctly. The course also shows you how to present data to other people in ways that are clear and accurate.
Delivery Method
Delivery is self-paced, allowing you the flexibility to proceed through the course according to your own schedule. The TRU-OL has no admission requirements and you can register for this course at any time throughout the year.
Prerequisites
Although this course does not involve complex mathematics, Principles of Math 11, or Applications of Math 12, or equivalent skills as established by assessment, are recommended as the minimum mathematical knowledge required. Students lacking the required mathematical background are advised to take a preparatory course before attempting this course. Basic computer literacy is recommended.
Exclusions
This course was formerly numbered MATH 102. Students with credit for MATH 102 may not repeat this course for further credit. Only one of STAT 101 (SFU STAT 101), STAT 1201 (previously STAT102), and PSYC 2101 (previously PSYC 220) may be taken for credit in programs offered through TRU-OL.
Objectives
At the end of this course, students should be able to:
- Understand and discuss some of the issues and problems associated with collecting and interpreting data from surveys, polls, and other statistical studies.
- Select and produce appropriate tabular and graphical formats for displaying univariate data sets and know how to summarize information about the centre and spread of a univariate data set.
- Understand the concepts of probability, random variables and their distributions, in particular the binomial distribution and normal distributions.
- Understand the concepts of estimation (confidence intervals) and hypothesis testing for population averages and percentages.
- Select and produce the appropriate tabular and graphical formats for displaying bivariate data sets and carry out correlation, regression and chi-square analyses.
Course Outline
- Unit 1: Exploring and Understanding Data
- Unit 2: Exploring Relationships between Variables
- Unit 3: Gathering Data
- Unit 4: Randomness and Probability
- Unit 5: From Data at Hand to the World at Large
- Unit 6: Learning About the World
Maximum Completion
30 weeks maximum duration. Students may choose to complete this course in less than the allowed maximum time.
Required Text and Materials
Students will receive all course materials including the textbooks in their course package.
- De Veaux, R, Paul Velleman and David Bock. Intro Stats Technology Update. 3rd ed.. New York: Pearson/Addison-Wesley, 2009.
Type: Textbook: ISBN: 9780321699121
- Craine III, William B.. Intro Stats. Student Solutions Manual. 3rd ed.. New York: Pearson/Addison-Wesley, 2009.
Type: Textbook: ISBN: 978-0-321-49941-7
Additional Requirements
TI-83 ®, TI-83 Plus ®, or a TI-84 Plus ® calculator for assignments and the final exam. Computer with Internet and CD-ROM drive, is required for the print-based and the web-based version of this course. Software for the course can only be used in a Windows environment and not on Macintosh computers.
Open Learning Faculty Member Information
An Open Learning Faculty Member is available to assist students. Primary communication is by phone and mail. You will receive a welcome letter with the contact information when you start the course.
Assessment
In order to successfully complete this course, you must obtain at least 50 per cent on the final mandatory examination and 50 per cent overall. Students who do not submit an assignment will be assigned a mark of zero (0) for that assignment. It is recommended that students complete all assignments in order to achieve the learning outcomes of the course.
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