Monash University Handbook 2011 Postgraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

The unit will introduce the core concepts of statistical inference, beginning with estimators, confidence intervals, type I and II errors and p-values. The emphasis will be on the practical interpretation of these concepts in biostatistical contexts, including an emphasis on the difference between statistical and practical significance. Classical estimation theory, bias and efficiency. Likelihood function, likelihood based methodology, maximum likelihood estimation and inference based on likelihood ration, Wald and score test procedures. Bayesian approach to statistical inference vs classical frequentist approach. Nonparametric procedures, exact inference and resampling based methodology.

Objectives

On completion of this unit the student will:

1. have a deeper understanding of fundamental concepts in statistical inference and their practical interpretation and importance in biostatistical contexts;
2. understand the theoretical basis for frequentists and Bayesian approaches to statistical inference;
3. be able to develop and apply parametric methods of inference, with particular reference to problems of relevance in biostatistical contexts;
4. have the theoretical basis to understand the justification for more complex statistical procedures introduced in subsequent units;
5. have an understanding of basic alternatives to standard likelihood-based methods, and be able to identify situations in which these methods are useful.

Assessment

Written assignments
Practical exercises.

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Andrew Forbes

Prerequisites

EPM5002, EPM5014

Prohibitions

This unit is only available to students enrolled in the Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma or Masters of Biostatistics.

Additional information on this unit is available from the faculty at:

http://www.med.monash.edu.au/epidemiology/pgrad