Mathematics (MATH) 216
Computer-oriented Approach to Statistics (Revision 2)
Revision 2 is closed for registrations, replaced by current version
Mathematics Diagnostic Assessment. This online test contains 70 questions that will help you assess your mathematical skills. Based on your score we will recommend which Athabasca University mathematics course you are likely ready to take successfully.
Note: The statistical software used in Math 216 is compatible with both the 32 bit and 64 bit versions of Microsoft Windows 7, Vista and XP. Mac users who do not have their computers configured to work with Windows based software should not enrol in MATH 216.
An alternative course equivalent without the use of a statistical package is MATH 215.
Delivery Mode: Individualized study online. Computer access required.
Credits: 3
Area of Study: Science
Prerequisite: None. Fundamental mathematical skills are required, particularly the ability to do basic algebra. Reviews of basic mathematics are available at Athabasca University Library. MATH 100 (a non-credit course) is suitable preparation for taking MATH 216, for those students concerned about their mathematical background. Familiarity with the Windows® operating system is essential.
Precluded Course: MGSC 301, MATH 215 (MATH 216 may not be taken for credit if credit has already been obtained for MGSC 301 or MATH 215.)
Faculty: Faculty of Science & Technology
MATH 216 is not available for challenge.
Overview
MATH 216 gives students a working knowledge and understanding of descriptive and inferential statistics and how statistics is applied in the sciences, social sciences, and business. An important feature of Math 216 is its computer component, which teaches you how to use an industry standard statistical software application to apply the tools of statistics to make practical decisions, prepare reports in the workplace, and effectively complete papers and research projects, in other university courses. We cannot underestimate the value of a course which encourages you to use computer software to apply the methods of statistics, in a society which is increasingly dependent on electronic sources of information such as intranet databases, external databases, the Internet, electronic instruments, and point of sales electronic terminals. Math 216 is a multi-media course that is designed to appeal to a wide range of students with diverse learning styles.
Outline
- Unit 1: Descriptive Statistics
- Unit 2: Probability
- Unit 3: Probability Distributions
- Unit 4: Inference on One Sample
- Unit 5: Inference on Two Samples
- Unit 6: Bivariate Analysis
Evaluation
To receive credit for MATH 216, you must achieve a mark of at least 50 percent on both the theory and the computer components of the Midterm and Final examinations. In other words:
MIDTERM EXAMINATION:
- theory component: more than 50%
- computer component: more than 50%
FINAL EXAMINATION:
- the theory component: more than 50%
- the computer component: more than 50%
Note: You are expected to use a standard scientific calculator in each exam. Programmable calculators, graphing calculators (such as the TI83 etc.) or computers may not be brought into the exam room.
Your composite course grade must also be at least “D” (50 percent) in order to pass this course. Students who do not achieve a minimum passing grade of 50% on any examination theory or computer component will be allowed to write one supplemental for each examination component.
| Tutor Marked Exercise 1 | 5% |
| Tutor Marked Exercise 2 | 5% |
| Tutor Marked Exercise 3 | 5% |
| Midterm Theory component | 28% |
| Midterm Computer component | 7% |
| Tutor Marked Exercise 4 | 5% |
| Tutor Marked Exercise 5 | 5% |
| Tutor Marked Exercise 6 | 5% |
| Final Exam Theory component | 28% |
| Final Exam Computer component | 7% |
| Total | 100% |
To learn more about assignments and examinations, please refer to Athabasca University's online Calendar.
Course Materials
Textbooks
Elementary Statistics, Picturing the World, 4th Ed., by Ron Larson and Betsy Farber. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall, Pearson Education, 2009. (includes CD). Note: A MyStatLab student access code should be packaged with this text. This code will give you access to the digital materials created by the textbook publisher.
Student Solutions Manual for 4th Edition of Elementary Statistics, Picturing the World, by Jay R. Schaffer. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall, Pearson Education, 2009.
Minitab Student Release 14 (CD). Statistical Software for Education. Pearson, Addison Wesley. 1972-2004 Minitab Inc.
Other materials
All other materials will be available to students online.
Athabasca University reserves the right to amend course outlines occasionally and without notice. Courses offered by other delivery methods may vary from their individualized-study counterparts.
Opened in Revision 2, February 7, 2011.
View previous syllabus