About
Statistics is the art and science of using sample data to make generalizations about populations. Students who successfully complete this could should be able to:
- critically consume statistically-based results reported in popular media, recognizing whether reported results reasonably follow from the study and analysis conducted.
- recognize questions for which the investigative process in statistics would be useful and should be able to answer questions using the investigative process.
- produce and interpret graphical displays and numerical summaries.
- recognize and explain the central role of variability in the field of statistics.
- recognize and explain the central role of randomness in designing studies and drawing conclusions.
- use statistical models to address a research question.
- conduct and interpret the results from hypothesis tests and confidence intervals.
- use and interpret the results from StatKey and Minitab Express.
Course Topics
Course Author(s)
Dr. Whitney Zimmerman is the author of these course materials and has taught this course for many semesters online.
Software
A handheld calculator is required for the proctored exams (cell phones, tablets, and online calculators are not allowed). The TI30-XS Multiview is recommended, though any calculator with square root and memory functions is sufficient. Contact your instructor if you have any questions concerning calculators.
Minitab
Minitab is the required software for this course. At the start of class, links will be made available for the software which can be purchased online for free through Penn State. See the course syllabus on the first day of class for full details about purchasing options. Contact the instructor at the start of the course with any questions regarding the purchase of the software.
This course uses Honorlock for proctored exams. For more information view O.3 What is a proctored exam? in the student orientation.
Textbook
Lock, Robin H.; Lock, Patti Frazer; Morgan, Kari Lock; Lock, Eric F., Lock, Dennis F. (2020) Statistics: Unlocking the Power of Data (3rd ed.), John Wiley & Sons, with WileyPLUS access ISBN: 978-EEGRP41332
Assessment Plan
Here is a typical assessment plan. It may vary depending on the instructor or semester.
- Weekly Assignments
- 12 WileyPLUS homework assignments
- 12 Quizzes
- 12 Lab assignments
- Exams
- 2 Midterm exams (fall/spring)
- 1 Final exam
PLEASE NOTE: This course may require you to take exams using certain proctoring software that uses your computer’s webcam or other technology to monitor and/or record your activity during exams. The proctoring software may be listening to you, monitoring your computer screen, viewing you and your surroundings, recording and storing any and all activity (including visual and audio recordings) during the proctoring process. By enrolling in this course, you consent to the use of the proctoring software selected by your instructor, including but not limited to any audio and/or visual monitoring which may be recorded. Please contact your instructor with any questions. (Read more...)