College Mathematics (MA 107) – Syllabus and Course Overview for Statistics

Course Overview

This course, College Mathematics (MA 107), provides an introduction to fundamental concepts in probability and statistics. The syllabus outlines the structure, expectations, and main topics covered, which align closely with the foundational chapters of a college-level statistics course.

Course Description and Goals

• Course Description: Focuses on combinations, permutations, counting problems, probability, and statistics. Emphasizes understanding basic concepts and their application in real-life scenarios.

• Student Learning Goals:

  • Study probability and statistics in everyday contexts to appreciate their role in modern society.

  • Develop critical and logical thinking skills for solving real-life problems in management, social, and life sciences using probability and statistics.

  • Apply probability and statistics to make informed decisions.

Course Outline

The course covers the following main topics, which correspond to standard statistics curriculum chapters:

• Chapter 1: Introduction to Statistics (Sections 1.1, 1.2, 1.3)

• Chapter 2: Descriptive Statistics

• Chapter 3: Probability

• Chapter 4: Discrete Probability Distributions (Section 4.1)

• Chapter 5: Normal Probability Distributions (Sections 5.1, 5.2, 5.3)

Required Materials

• Textbook: Elementary Statistics: Picturing the World, Ron Larson, 8th edition.

• Calculator: A scientific calculator is required for all assessments.

Grading Standards

• Homework: 15%

• Quizzes: 20%

• Three Cumulative Tests: 40%

• Cumulative Final Exam: 25%

Grading Scale

Grade	Range (%)
A	93-100
A-	90-92
B+	87-89
B	83-86
B-	80-82
C+	77-79
C	73-76
C-	70-72
D+	67-69
D	60-66
F	0-59

Course Policies and Expectations

• Attendance: Regular attendance is required. More than six unexcused absences will result in being dropped from the course.

• Conduct: Academic honesty and respectful behavior are expected at all times.

• Late Work: Late homework is penalized 3 points per day and not accepted after class discussion.

• Assessment: No make-up quizzes or tests without official, documented excuses. The average of other grades may be used for one excused absence.

• Electronic Devices: Use only when approved for classroom purposes. Unauthorized use during assessments results in a zero.

• Study Time: Students should expect to spend 6–9 hours per week outside of class for study and assignments.

• Accommodations: Reasonable accommodations are available for students with documented disabilities.

Course Relevance to Statistics Curriculum

This course directly addresses the following foundational statistics topics:

• Introduction to Statistics: Understanding the role and importance of statistics in various fields.

• Descriptive Statistics: Summarizing and describing data using measures of central tendency and variability.

• Probability: Basic probability concepts, including counting methods, combinations, and permutations.

• Discrete Probability Distributions: Introduction to probability distributions for discrete random variables.

• Normal Probability Distributions: Properties and applications of the normal distribution.

Example Applications

• Management: Using probability to assess risk and make decisions.

• Social Sciences: Applying descriptive statistics to analyze survey data.

• Life Sciences: Understanding variability and probability in biological measurements.

Additional Information

• Students are responsible for all material covered and assignments made during absences.

• Official communication is through the Erskine College email system.

• The syllabus is subject to modification; students will be notified of any changes.