Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2022 - STAT 300W B100

Statistics Communication (3)

Class Number: 6691

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 10 – Apr 11, 2022: Tue, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Jan 10 – Apr 11, 2022: TBA, TBA
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Mar 8, 2022
    Tue, 6:00–7:50 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Apr 5, 2022
    Tue, 6:00–7:50 p.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). Students will also be required to give presentations.

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 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:
This course will be taught with a blended approach, including both synchronous and asynchronous aspects.

Grading

  • Lecture participation and exercises 15%
  • Homework assignments 10%
  • Quiz 5%
  • Papers and Presentations 70%

NOTES:

Above grading is subject to change.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Access to high-speed internet

Department Undergraduate Notes:

Tutor Requests:
Students looking for a tutor should visit https://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 SPRING 2022

Teaching at SFU in spring 2022 will involve primarily in-person instruction, with safety plans in place.  Some courses will still be offered through remote methods, and if so, this will be clearly identified in the schedule of classes.  You will also know at enrollment whether remote course components will be “live” (synchronous) or at your own pace (asynchronous).

Enrolling in a course acknowledges that you are able to attend in whatever format is required.  You should not enroll in a course that is in-person if you are not able to return to campus, and should be aware 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.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who may need class or exam accommodations, including in the context of remote learning, are advised to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as early as possible in order to prepare for the spring 2022 term.