Statistics and Probability module (MA12003)

This module introduces you to statistics and probability. There are applications of statistics and probability in science, engineering, medicine, and economics. Statistics is the science of collecting, analysing, and interpreting data. It is used to draw conclusions from data. Probability is the study of chance and randomness, which can be used to predict the likelihood of an event occurring. 
 

A large part of this module studies probability distributions. This describes the likelihood of different possible outcomes for a certain quantity. You will also be introduced to sampling, which can be used to make predictions about future events.

You will also learn how to use the software package Microsoft Excel to do calculations with data. This will also develop IT skills that are used beyond statistics.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• understand numerical summaries of data
• learn about the visual representation of data
• apply discrete and continuous probability distributions to solve simple problems
• understand the appropriate use of data samples
• use Microsoft Excel for data analysis

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• present data in an informative and accessible way
• understand the theory and fundamental definitions of probability
• calculate and interpret basic statistical measures
• calculate probabilities of events in various situations
   
• use data samples to make predictions about the whole population
• predict a linear relationship between two variables based on a sample
• use Microsoft Excel to do calculations with data

Assignments / assessment

• coursework (20%)
  • lab report using Microsoft Excel
• final exam (80%)

Teaching methods / timetable

There will be five hours of in-person teaching every week, including:

• two lectures weekly
  • lectures cover key points of the week's content
  • in-class time is prioritised for interactive discussion
  • lecture notes covering the full module will be available before classes
  • video content for key concepts and selected topics will be available
• three hours of tutorials weekly
  • solve problems individually and in groups
  • learning support will be provided by your lecturer and other tutors