Mathematics (MATH) 216
Computer-oriented Approach to Statistics (Revision 3)
Revision 3 is closed for registrations, see current revision
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 web-based statistical software used in Math 216 is compatible with the following operating systems: Windows: 10, 8.1. 8, and 7; Mac OS: 10.12 – Sierra, 10.11 - El Capitan, 10.10 – Yosemite
An alternative course equivalent without the use of a statistical package is MATH 215.
Delivery Mode: Individualized study online (with eTextbook). 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
Centre: Centre for Science
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
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, you should be able to
- apply the basic principles of statistical analysis using a statistical software.
- employ the tools of descriptive statistics to organize, summarize and present information in a meaningful way.
- predict the likelihood of real world events, based on rules of probability and common probability distributions.
- estimate and test hypotheses regarding characteristics of both single and multiple populations.
- identify patterns of relationships between qualitative variables.
- employ linear correlation and regression methods to analyze relationships between quantitative variables.
- responsibly use statistical methods by testing the underlying assumptions.
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.) computers or any other mobile electronic device 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 percent on any examination theory or computer component will be allowed to write one supplemental for each examination component.
| Activity | Weighting |
|---|---|
| Assignment 1 | 5% |
| Assignment 2 | 5% |
| Assignment 3 | 5% |
| Midterm Theory component | 28% |
| Midterm Computer component | 7% |
| Assignment 4 | 5% |
| Assignment 5 | 5% |
| Assignment 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
Registration in this course includes an electronic textbook. For more information on electronic textbooks, please refer to our eText Initiative site.
e-Textbook
Elementary Statistics, Picturing the World, 6th Ed., by Ron Larson and Betsy Farber. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall, Pearson Education, 2015.
A print version of the eText may be available for purchase from the publisher through a direct-to-student link provided on the course website; you can also acquire the textbook on your own if you wish.
Online Resources Published by Athabasca University
Student Manual. Athabasca, AB: Athabasca University, 2015.
Math 216: Computer-oriented Approach to Statistics. Course Orientation. Athabasca, AB: Athabasca University, 2015.
Math 216: Computer-oriented Approach to Statistics. Study Guide. Athabasca, AB: Athabasca University, 2015.
Math 216: Computer Labs (Technology Manual). Athabasca, AB: Athabasca University, 2015.
Online Resources at Pearson MyStatLab Website
- Student Solutions Manual
- StatCrunch statistical software (also available at statcrunch.com)
- MyStatLab Study Plan (Optional)
- Multimedia Resources (Optional)
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 3, January 16, 2017.
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