Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2021 - STAT 300W D100

Statistics Communication (3)

Class Number: 2068

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Tue, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Fri, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    Admission to the major or honours programs in statistics; STAT 350 with a minimum grade of C- or permission of the instructor; prior completion of a lower division W course.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Guided experiences in written and oral communication of statistical ideas and results with both scientific and lay audiences. Writing.

COURSE DETAILS:

Outline:

This course exposes students to types of writing related to the field of statistics. These may include technical reports for both statistical and lay audiences, consulting reports, and critiques (e.g. of the use of statistics in the media).

Writing requires an in-depth understanding of the subject matter.

The course will give students the opportunity to receive feedback on their writing from the instructor, possibly a TA, and their classmates. Each student will complete several reports during the semester. The first draft of some reports will be critiqued and returned. For these reports, students are expected to respond to the critiques and submit a final version. One or more report will include an in-class, oral presentation. Report marks will be based both on writing technique and statistical content. In addition, students will be marked on their contribution to in-class discussions led by the instructor.

It is assumed that you are familiar with the following topics:

  • Elementary probability theory, including properties of the normal, Poisson, binomial, etc., distributions
  • Confidence intervals, p-values, hypothesis testing
  • Linear regression theory
  • Maximum likelihood estimation
  • Other standard data analysis tools (diagnostic plots, t-tests, ANOVA methods, etc.)

Mode of teaching:

  • Teaching method: Flipped classroom.
  • Lecture: Asynchronous and prerecorded
    • Lecture time will be used to answer questions and give guidance for weekly assignments.
  • Final exam: No final exam, but there will be a final project

Grading

  • Assignments 75%
  • Final Project 25%

NOTES:

Above grading is subject to change.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Access to high-speed internet, webcam.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

Students with Disabilities:
Students requiring accommodations as a result of disability must contact the Centre for Accessible Learning 778-782-3112 or csdo@sfu.ca


Tutor Requests:
Students looking for a tutor should visit hhttps://www.sfu.ca/stat-actsci/all-students/other-resources/tutoring.html. We accept no responsibility for the consequences of any actions taken related to tutors.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

TEACHING AT SFU IN SUMMER 2021

Teaching at SFU in summer 2021 will be conducted primarily through remote methods, but we will continue to have in-person experiential activities for a selection of courses.  Such course components will be clearly identified at registration, as will course components that will be “live” (synchronous) vs. at your own pace (asynchronous). Enrollment acknowledges that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes. To ensure you can access all course materials, we recommend you have access to a computer with a microphone and camera, and the internet. In some cases your instructor may use Zoom or other means requiring a camera and microphone to invigilate exams. If proctoring software will be used, this will be confirmed in the first week of class.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who believe they may need class or exam accommodations, including in the current context of remote learning, are encouraged to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112).