620-272 Applied Statistics for Optometrists

This subject is available only to BOptom students.

Students may gain credit for only one of 620-270, 620-272 and 620-370.

Students who have completed 620-371 or 620-372 may not enrol in this subject for credit.

VCE Mathematical Methods 3/4.

This subject lays the foundations for an understanding of the fundamental concepts of probability and statistics, as they relate to optometry. Students will learn about the importance of good study design in scientific research, how to examine data to determine underlying structures, formulate statistical models for a range of practical situations and check the assumptions of the model in specific situations. They will also learn to use the computer to carry out standard statistical analyses and to express conclusions in scientifically useful terms.

Topics include: probability, including the concepts of incidence, prevalence, specificity, sensitivity and predictive probability; Bayes' theorem. Random variables and their properties: distribution, mean, variance; binomial and normal distributions; random sampling. Statistical inference: estimation; confidence intervals; hypothesis testing; determination of sample size. Correlation and regression: assumptions; method of least squares; hypothesis testing; confidence and prediction intervals; residuals; transformations; polynomial regression. Analysis of variance models (one-way and two-way models): model specification; assumptions; estimation and hypothesis testing; interaction; transformations; residuals; diagnostics. Design of experiments: randomisation; replication; blocking; standard designs including completely randomised and randomised block designs. Guidelines for supporting an argument for cause and effect based on observational data. Contingency tables: tests for association; odds ratios. Use of the statistical package Minitab.

Up to 50 pages of written assignments due during the semester (25%); a 3-hour written examination in the examination period (75%).