Challenges in Statistics (10 credit points)

Course Times & Enrolment

This course is currently unavailable.

Course Summary

Statistical reasoning is important for the successful study of a number of undergraduate degree subjects, and for understanding and interpreting statistics in the media and in research reports. Through practical exercises and challenges, the course will build students’ skills in evaluating the authenticity and reliability of data, and in designing survey questions and collecting, analyzing and presenting data of their own.

Course Details

Content of Course

Students will undertake a group project in a small group. Each group will investigate a research question independently, with tutors providing guidance and direction. It is anticipated that the project will always include a survey element, but the size of that element may vary between projects. The students will be expected to use appropriate statistical techniques to agree one or more responses to the research question. In the last week of the course the group will submit a written report and also present their work to their peers. All students will be expected to take part in the presentation, to respond to questions and to ask questions of their peers.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this course students should be able to:

As part of a group, design and carry out a study to answer specific questions (pose problem, collect data according to a plan, analyze data, draw conclusions from data).
Present and explain data in an appropriate and meaningful manner.
Evaluate and question statistical ideas.

Sources

Core Readings

Directed reading (websites, texts, articles) and activities will be set between classes to prepare students for the next interactive class session.

Assessments

10 credit courses have one assessment. Normally, the assessment is a 2000 word essay, worth 100% of the total mark, submitted by week 12. To pass, students must achieve a minimum of 40%. There are a small number of exceptions to this model which are identified in the Studying for Credit Guide.

Studying for Credit

If you choose to study for credit you will need to allocate significant time outwith classes for coursework and assessment preparation. Credit points gained from this course can count towards the Certificate of Higher Education.

Queries

If you have questions regarding the course or enrolment, please contact COL Reception at Paterson's Land by email COL@ed.ac.uk or by phone 0131 650 4400.

Student support

If you have a disability, learning difficulty or health condition which may affect your studies, please let us know by ticking the 'specific support needs' box on your course application form. This will allow us to make appropriate adjustments in advance and in accordance with your rights under the Equality Act 2010. For more information please visit the Student Support section of our website.