Monash University Handbook 2011 Undergraduate - Unit

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

Synopsis

Scientific method. The role of mathematical models in science. Principles of experimental and sampling design, data acquisition, analysis and presentation of data. Hypothesis testing and confidence intervals. Relationship between quantitative variables. Communication of scientific information.

Objectives

On completion of this unit, students will understand the key steps of the scientific method and how these are applied to real problems that involve data analysis and interpretation, and will gain an appreciation of how statistical data is collected, analysed and stored, and the importance of statistical techniques in the analysis of data. Students will be able to use Excel to present and interpret data graphically, determine confidence intervals, calculate normal probabilities, carry out regression and interpret results, conduct hypothesis testing and interpret results, and to communicate findings through a scientific report. The unit is designed for students without a strong mathematics background.

Assessment

Written examination: 60%
Assignments: 40%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Christian Rau

Contact hours

3 hours lectures per week, 2 hours workshop per week

Prohibitions

STA1010, ETW1102