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.
Course start date:
If you are a:
Self-funded student: register by the 10th of the month, start on the 1st of the next.
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.
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
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 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
Weight
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.
Materials
Larson, R., & Farber, B. (2019). Elementary statistics: Picturing the world (7th ed.). New York: Pearson. (eText)
Math 216: Computer-oriented Approach to Statistics. Course Orientation. Athabasca, AB: Athabasca University, 2020. (Online)
Math 216: Computer-oriented Approach to Statistics. Study Guide. Athabasca, AB: Athabasca University, 2020. (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.