Statistics Course Syllabus and Success Guide

Statistics Course Syllabus and Success Guide

Course Overview

This course provides an introduction to statistical methods and their applications. It is designed for students in a wide range of disciplines and covers essential concepts in statistics, including data analysis, probability, and inferential statistics. The course emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical problem-solving using statistical software.

Course Structure and Requirements

• Prerequisite: Completion of MATH 0200C or higher, or an appropriate score on an approved placement test.

• Textbook: Essential Statistics, 3rd ed. by Gould & Ryan

• Required Software: MyMathLab Access Code with eBook and a scientific calculator (TI-83 or TI-84 or higher recommended).

• Technology: Reliable internet access and a webcam for proctored exams.

Key Topics Covered

• Descriptive Statistics: Methods for summarizing and describing important features of data sets.

• Probability: Basic probability concepts, rules, and distributions.

• Inferential Statistics: Drawing conclusions about populations based on sample data, including hypothesis testing and confidence intervals.

• Statistical Software: Use of MyMathLab for homework, quizzes, and exams.

Course Policies

Class Navigation

• Access course materials and announcements via Canvas.

• Homework and quizzes are completed in MyMathLab.

• Proctored exams require a webcam and may be taken at a testing center or online using Honorlock.

Homework and Quizzes

• Homework is assigned for each section and completed in MyMathLab.

• Unit quizzes are proctored and must be completed by the posted deadlines.

• There are no extensions on deadlines; plan accordingly.

Exams

• Midterm and Final: Comprehensive exams covering all course material.

• Exams are proctored using Honorlock and require a webcam and valid ID.

• Practice exams and review materials are provided in Canvas.

Evaluation and Grading

Grades are based on a weighted average of homework, quizzes, and exams. The grading scale is as follows:

Category	Weight
Homework (Computer Work and Canvas Assignments)	35%
Homework Unit Quizzes in MyMathLab	25%
Homework Midterm and Final	40%

Grading Scale:

Percentage	Grade
90-100	A
80-89	B
70-79	C
60-69	D
Below 60	F

Important Dates and Deadlines

Assignments are due weekly, typically on Mondays at 2pm. Late work is not accepted except for specific circumstances (e.g., holidays). The course schedule includes regular homework, quizzes, and proctored exams.

Success Tips

• Set aside regular time each day for homework and review.

• Practice solving problems without referring to notes or the textbook.

• Check Canvas and MyMathLab regularly for updates and assignments.

• Contact your instructor promptly if you encounter technical or academic difficulties.

Academic Integrity

• All students are expected to adhere to the college's academic honesty policy.

• Cheating or plagiarism will result in disciplinary action.

Technical Support

• MyMathLab and Canvas offer 24/7 technical support.

• Contact Honorlock support for issues with proctored exams.

Example: Calculating the Mean

The mean (average) of a data set is calculated as follows:

$\bar{x} = \frac{1}{n} \sum_{i=1}^{n} x_i$

where $x_i$ represents each data value and $n$ is the total number of values.

Example: Probability of an Event

The probability of an event $A$ is given by:

$P(A) = \frac{\text{Number of favorable outcomes}}{\text{Total number of possible outcomes}}$

Example: Confidence Interval for a Mean

A confidence interval for the population mean $\mu$ (when population standard deviation $\sigma$ is known) is:

$\bar{x} \pm z^* \frac{\sigma}{\sqrt{n}}$

where $z^*$ is the critical value from the standard normal distribution.

Additional Info

• Students with disabilities should contact the instructor in the first week to arrange accommodations.

• Changes to the syllabus or schedule may occur at the instructor's discretion.