Available in 2024
Course code

STAT1020

Units

10 units

Level

1000 level

Course handbook

Description

This course introduces students to statistical thinking, statistical methods and the interpretation of results from these methods. Examples from a range of science related disciplines are used to illustrate the key concepts. Interested in studying further statistics courses to develop your skills and improve your employability? Information about available statistics courses can be found here: https://www.newcastle.edu.au/school/mathematical-and-physical-sciences/study/statistics-courses


Availability2024 Course Timetables

Callaghan

  • Semester 1 - 2024
  • Semester 2 - 2024

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course students will be able to:

1. Identify appropriate methods of data collection (sampling and study designs) and analysis (e.g., for comparison of groups) for scientific studies

2. Identify and interpret appropriate graphs and summary statistics

3. Describe conceptually confidence intervals and hypothesis testing and interpret these in reports and articles

4. Describe conceptually statistical models and interpret corresponding results in reports and articles

5. Critically appraise statistical techniques/elements/aspects/issues in the scientific literature


Content

Topics will include:

  1. Critical statistical appraisal of scientific papers and government reports
  2. Study designs;
  3. Descriptive statistics;
  4. Presentation and interpretation of data in tables and graphs;
  5. Confidence intervals and hypothesis testing;
  6. Data analysis techniques;
  7. Business writing formats: applying good writing rules to fact sheets, backgrounders, pitch letters, position papers, reports, and biographies;

A strong emphasis of the concepts will be made using a range of literature appearing in peer review journals and government reports.


Assessment items

Written Assignment: Assignments

Online Open Book Formal Examination: Formal Examination


Contact hours

Semester 1 - 2024 - Callaghan

Workshop-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 13 week(s) starting in week 1
  • Students are expected to complete 4 hours of guided learning via online preparation, lectures, interactive workshops, tutorials, discussion groups or self-directed learning and an additional 6 hours of independent study per week.

Semester 2 - 2024 - Callaghan

Workshop-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 13 week(s) starting in week 1
  • Students are expected to complete 4 hours of guided learning via online preparation, lectures, interactive workshops, tutorials, discussion groups or self-directed learning and an additional 6 hours of independent study per week.

Course outline