Mathematics

Math 130 Introductory Statistics

Section 2MWF2:10 – 3:00inMC 304

Fall, 2000

Dr. Mark Saegrove

Office MC 525Ph. 796-3657Home Phone 1-608-735-4789

Catalog Course Description: An introductory course which deals with the organization and processing of various types of data, normal and binomial distributions, estimation theory, hypothesis testing, correlation and regression, and some nonparametric tests. Prerequisite: acceptable placement score or grade ofC or higher in Math 001.

General Course Objectives: This “consumer-oriented” course is designed to cause students to learn basic concepts in descriptive and inferential statistics, and introductory probability. Students demonstrate knowledge of these concepts by solving numerous assigned homework problems, and by providing written solutions to exam problems in accepted statistical format.

Core Skill Objectives:

1. Thinking Skills: 

A. Uses reasoned standards in solving problems and presenting arguments.

2. Communication Skills:

A. Reads with comprehension and the ability to analyze and evaluate.

B.Listens with an open mind and responds with respect.

A. Analyzes, evaluates and responds to ethical issues from an informed personalvalue system.

Course Objectives

1. Thinking Skills:

A. Reasons deductively by learning general principles which are then applied tospecific problems.

C. Learns to use the statistical process as one of the means of answering a question or supporting a position.

2. Communication Skills:

A. Reads text and reference materials outside of class.

B. Observes examples and discusses questions in class.

C. Communicates solutions to statistical problems in writing on in-class work, exams, and course project in appropriate statistical format.

3. Life Value Skills:

A. Learns of some classic examples of the misuse of statistics and its consequences.

B. Acquires an appreciation for the importance of honesty in the presentation of all(not just favorable) outcomes of statistical research.

Text: Elementary Statistics by Mario Triola, 7th edition, 1998.

References: Rossman and Chance. Workshop Statistics, Springer-Verlag, 1998.

Auslander, Louis et al. Mathematics Through Statistics, Williams and Wilkens.

De Santo, Carmine et al. Statistics Through Problem Solving, Mathematics Alternatives Inc.

Kimble, G.A. How to Use and Misuse Statistics, Prentice-Hall.

Moore, David. Statistics - Concepts and Controversies, Freeman.

Moore and McCabe. Introduction to the Practice ofStatistics, Freeman.

Notter, Lucille. Essentials of Nursing Research, Springer.

Phillips, David. Basic Statistics for Health Science Students, Freeman.

Reichman, W.J. Use and Abuse of Statistics, Penguin.

Content:Introduction: What is Statistics?

Descriptive Statistics

Ethics in Descriptive Statistics

Probability

Probability Distributions- Binomial

Normal Distribution

Interval Estimation

Sample Sizes

Hypothesis Testing

Linear Correlation and Regression

Multinomial Experiments and Contingency Tables

Analysis of Variance

Non-parametrics (if time permits)

Course Project

Grading: 10 chapter exams500 points

final exam (cumulative)100 points

course project50 points

total700 points

Note: Grades are based on points allocated above. No extra credit.

Note:Exams are “closed book”. Tables in the back of the book and 1 sheet (8.5”x 1l” both sides) of notes are allowed to be used for exams. Exams cover assigned readings, even if not discussed in class, and topics discussed in class, even if not in the text. Calculators and MINITAB are allowed for exams also.

Note: All tests taken in regular classroom at scheduled times. No exams taken in learning center unless diagnosed learning disability exists (verified by Mr. Wojeichowski in writing).

Note: Final exam must be taken at regularly scheduled time unless approved in writing by the Dean.

Attendance: Required.See Viterbo College catalog, page 36.All guidelines followed. 

Calculating Equipment: MINITAB is available on the computers in MC304 and elsewhere on campus.It is also recommended that you have a hand-held calculator or portable computer for use when you do not have access to computers on campus.

Cheating: First offense - zero credit on pertinent work; second offense - failure in the course.

Extra Help: If you find that you need extra help, see me right away. Tutoring can be made available from the Learning Center if necessary. 

ADA Statement: If you are a person with a disability and require any auxiliary aids, services, or other accommodations for this class, please see me and Wayne Wojciechowski, the Americans with Disabilities Act coordinator (MC320, 796-3085) within ten days to discuss your accommodation needs. 

Note: accommodation for special test-taking needs will be made only after these needs are confirmed in writing by Mr. Wojciechowski.