620-160 Experimental Design and Data Analysis

Note

Students may only gain credit for one of 620-131, 620-140, 620-160 (1997 or earlier Handbooks 617-141, 617-160, 617-170, 619-100, 619-101).

Credit Points

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Semester

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Subject Description

This subject lays the foundations for subsequent studies in probability and statistics, as well as being vital for students who need to use probability and statistics in other subjects in their course. Students completing this subject will develop skills in probability modelling and data analysis, and appreciate the significance of random variation in science, technology and commerce, and addresses the following topics.

Data description and analysis. Elementary distribution theory: binomial and normal distributions. Random sampling, simulation of random samples. Population parameters and sample statistics. Estimation, confidence intervals and hypothesis testing based on the binomial and normal distributions. Introduction to distribution-free methods. Contingency tables. Introduction to bivariate data, including correlation and linear regression. Scientific method and experimental design, including randomisation, blocking, factorial structure. Inference for regression. Application of computer software to data analysis and simulation.

Assessment

Up to 36 pages of written assignments or project work, a one-hour mid-semester test and a three-hour written examination.