MAT41S/42S/43S: Statistics

This sequence of courses is offered fall (MAT41S), winter (MAT42S) and spring (MAT43S). MAT41S covers the basic principles of descriptive statistics. One-variable topics include graphical representations of data, measures of central tendency and measures of variability. Two-variable data analysis is based on linear regression. Other topics include probability distributions, sampling techniques, binomial distributions and experimental design. We emphasize the application of statistical techniques to real-world situations. Both the computer and the calculator are integral to the course. During the spring, the course also looks at the principles of hypothesis testing, including non-parametric methods used in the social sciences. Prerequisite: MAT330 or its equivalent. Students who complete MAT40S may not elect MAT41S/42S/43S. MAT42S extends MAT41S by covering topics in inferential statistics, including confidence intervals, tests of significance and statistics in decision-making. We draw problems from the biological and physical sciences, political science, and sociology. Prerequisite: MAT41S. MAT43S builds on the principles of MAT41S and 42S, including more in-depth studies of probability theory. Student-designed projects, based on the statistical procedures learned in the previous courses, constitute important components of the course. This course completes students' preparation for the Advanced Placement exam in Statistics. In preparation for this examination, classes will meet during the reserve format before the test and fewer times per week after.