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STAT2010

Fundamentals of Statistics

10 Units 2000 Level Course

Available in 2013

Callaghan Campus Semester 2

Previously offered in 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004

Statistics is about using data to describe, summarise and model the world around us. Whether it's cricket scores, the stock market or global warming, we need to understand probability and data analysis in order to make informed decisions and predictions.

This course develops basic concepts of probability, random variables and their distributions, and then shows how these ideas provide the theoretical foundation for data analysis through statistical modelling, estimation and hypothesis testing.

Although a variety of real problems are used to illustrate the concepts and methods, the emphasis in this course is on statistical theory. STAT2010 is an essential part of a Statistics major providing the necessary background for most 3000 level statistics courses. STAT2010 is also suitable for those students in a range of undergraduate programs who wish to understand why statistical methods work (and not just how to operate a statistical software package without any true comprehension).

Objectives On successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. explain the mathematical basis of probability
2. define real world problems in statistical terms
3. recognize common probability distributions and their applications
4. solve a range of problems involving expectation and transformation of random variables
5. use simple Monte Carlo simulation methods
6. use fundamental principles of estimation to derive statistical estimators
7. explain the principles of hypothesis testing and derive and use simple hypothesis tests
8. develop simple statistical models useful in analysing real problems.
Content The course will include the following topics
. Probability
. Random variables and their distributions
. Expected values
. Functions of random variables
. Joint distributions
. Samples, statistics, sampling distributions and limit theorems
. Estimation
. Hypothesis testing
. Simple statistical models - regression and ANOVA
Replacing Course(s) n/a
Transition n/a
Industrial Experience 0
Assumed Knowledge Introductory course in applied statistics (eg STAT1070) and calculus of two variables (eg MATH1120).
Modes of Delivery Internal Mode
Teaching Methods Lecture
Computer Lab
Assessment Items
Essays / Written Assignments
Examination: Formal
Other: (please specify) Homework
Contact Hours Lecture: for 2 hour(s) per Week for Full Term
Computer Lab: for 2 hour(s) per Week for Full Term
Timetables 2013 Course Timetables for STAT2010