Course Description

Introduction to Statistics (Math 5) is the study of understanding characteristics of populations by collecting and analyzing data on portions of the population. The process of statistics involves asking a question about a population; gathering data from a sample of the population to address the question; analyzing the data using mathematical techniques; and forming conclusions.

The support element (Math 215) of this course allows us to spend extra time on particularly tricky concepts and formulas and to discuss personal development topics such as growth mindset, time management, and study skills :)

Course Objectives

Upon successful completion of the Math 5 course, you will be able to:

Describe and analyze data using descriptive statistics including histograms, frequency tables, stem-and-leaf diagrams, boxplots, mean, median, mode, and standard deviation. Be able to distinguish among different scales of measurement and their implications.
Demonstrate proficiency with calculations of basic probabilities for simple events.
Identify the difference between discrete and continuous random variables. Be able to calculate the mean and variance of a discrete distribution.
Calculate probabilities using a normal distribution or graphing calculator.
Interpret the Central Limit Theorem and apply the concept to examples.
Create and interpret confidence intervals estimates of population means and proportions.
Identify the basic concepts of hypothesis testing including Type I and Type II errors. Employ hypothesis test procedures to test claims about single population means and proportions, and two population means and proportions. Select the appropriate technique (p-value, t-test, z-test) for analyzing the hypothesis test. Be able to interpret the result of the hypothesis test in words.
Employ linear correlation and regression to model simple linear relationships.
Utilize statistical software to analyze and interpret data.
Demonstrate a synthesis of concepts learned throughout the semester by a group project, which will require students to formulate a survey, collect data, analyze data, and derive inferences from the data.
Discuss sampling methods and identify the standard methods of obtaining data and identify advantages and disadvantages of each.
Do application problems using data from disciplines including business, social sciences, psychology, life science, health science, and education.

By the end of the Math 215 course, you will be able to:

Demonstrate proficiency in formulating questions which can be addressed with data. Organize, display, and analyze relevant data to address these questions and communicate results.
Demonstrate proficiency with calculations using statistical formulas and notation commonly encountered in a Math 5 course.
Demonstrate proficiency in transfer-level mathematics study skills, including reading and notetaking using a statistics textbook, writing clear statistical interpretations, utilizing time management for completion of labs and assignments, and preparing for written examinations.

Duration : 16 weeks

Time Commitment: approximately 10 hours per week

Prerequisite and Corequisite

Prerequisite: Math 240 with a grade of C or better.

Corquesite: You should be concurrently enrolled in Math 215 with Mr. Medina!