EPM5014 - Probability and distribution theory

Leader: A/Prof Andrew Forbes

Offered

Alfred Hospital Second semester 2008 (Off-campus)

Synopsis

This unit involves the study of basic probability and calculus-based methods of underpinning probability distributions and parameter estimation.

Objectives

Upon completion of this unit, students should be able to:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the meaning and laws of probability;
2. Apply calculus-based tools to derive key features of a probability distribution, such as mean and variance;
3. Understand the theoretical basis for estimation via likelihood based methods;
4. Apply calculus based tools to derive estimators from likelihood functions;
5. Understand properties of parameter estimators and the usefulness of large sample approximations in statistics;
6. Appreciate the role of simulation in demonstrating and explaining statistical concepts.

Assessment

Written Assignments 80%
Practical written exercises 15%
Online discussion 5%

Prerequisites

EPM5002