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Required Textbook
Statistics for the Sciences, by Buntinas and Funk, 2005,
Duxbury (Thomson Brooks/Cole). ISBN-10: 0534387748, ISBN-13:
978-0534387747
General Course Information
This course presents basic ideas of probability theory and statistics, and
is recommended for students throughout the natural and social sciences who
want a broad background in statistical methodology and exposure to
probability models and the statistical concepts underlying the methodology.
Probability is developed for the purpose of modeling outcomes of random
phenomena. Random variables and their expectations are studied; including
means and variances of linear combinations, and an introduction to
conditional expectation. Binomial, hypergeometric, Poisson, exponential,
normal and other standard probability distributions are considered. Some
probability models are studied mathematically and others via simulation on
a computer. Sampling distributions and related statistical methods are
explored mathematically, studied via simulation and illustrated on data.
Statistical methods for describing data and making inferences based on
samples from populations are presented. Methods include, but are not
limited to, inference for proportions and means for one- and two-sample
problems, correlation and simple linear regression. Graphical and numerical
data description are used for exploration, communication of results, and
comparing mathematical consequences of probability models and data.
Mathematics is employed to the level of univariate calculus and is less
demanding than that required by STAT 24400.
Univariate calculus and computer simulation are used throughout the course
to investigate statistical concepts and their mathematical underpinnings.
One full year of univariate calculus is a prerequisite for the course (Math
13300, 15300, or 16300). Students with AP Calculus credit for any of these
prerequisite courses may also enroll.
Familiarity with at least limits, derivatives and
integrals of polynomial and exponential functions, change of variable
(substitution) in definite integrals, max-min problems, use of summation
notation, and sequences and series as well as a willingness to explore
ideas mathematically are key to your success in this course. See
the calculus handout
(and solutions) and the
handout on summation notation
for more detailed information.
Stat 23400 takes the mathematical prerequisite quite seriously. Enrolling
concurrently in either Math 13300, 15300, or 16300 while taking Stat 23400
is very strongly discouraged. Further, students who do not feel strong
mathematically, may want to wait until completing their entire mathematical
requirement (e.g., Math 19520-19620 for Economics majors) before enrolling
in Stat 23400. Economics majors are strongly encouraged to delay taking
Stat 23400 until the quarter just before enrolling in their required
econometrics course (Econ 21000), for which Stat 23400 is a prerequisite.
Thus, delaying Stat 23400 until at least late in the second year or even
early in the third year of the Economics degree program should not be
considered unusual.
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