Q SCI 381: Introduction to Probability and Statistics (Section C: SLN XXXXX) --- Autumn XXXX

Getting Started: Course Information and Syllabus

Welcome to Q SCI 381C. Here you will find helpful information about this course. You are also encouraged to review our class web site and read the information about the course posted on the MyLab & Mastering Course Content web site .

This course is delivered using a hybrid approach.

  • The web is used to deliver all course content. Students are responsible for accessing this information and for learning the course material. This requires self-discipline and vigilance to ensure that enough study time is devoted to this course on a daily basis.
  • The instructors use email to communicate with the class and a discussion board is available for students to submit questions or comments. In addition, our course TA holds office hours to provide individual attention when needed.

    At the beginning of each week, we send an email outlining the week's topics and the text chapter covered. We cover one chapter of our text per week. Every two weeks we have a closed book hourly exam and we end the class with a closed book comprehensive final exam. Please review the web page that describes how the class is graded.

    The homework problems are NOT turned in for grading. You may check your understanding by logging onto the MyLab & Mastering web site and check answers to the odd numbered exercises (see Chapter Contents tab). In addition, there are numerous online MyLab & Mastering homework problems that can be worked to test your level of understanding. Note to use MyLab & Mastering make sure you are using one of the approved browsers for MyMathLab.

    Student Learning Goals

  • To master the basic concepts of probability and elementary statistical techniques.
  • To understand the difference between descriptive and inferential statistical methods.
  • To learn how to formulate a hypothesis, design an experiment or sample survey, collect and analyze sample data, interpret the results of the analysis, make the proper conclusion, and draw the correct inference.
  • To understand the power of inductive logic and its role in gaining a better insight into biological and environmental problems.
  • To demonstrate the proper uses of statistical thinking and the role statistics plays in science and in the common press.
  • To allow students to better understand how statistics can be properly used in their disciplinary studies in biology, natural resource sciences, environmental sciences, and other physical and social sciences.

    MyLab & Mastering

    You should purchase access to additional online course materials which are available at our MyLab & Mastering web site. This is especially important since no formal class lectures are included as part of this course. To register to use MyLab & Mastering, visit the MyLab & Mastering web site and under the Register tab click the Student dialog box. If you already purchased access to MyLab & Mastering enter the course id bare59952 and proceed. The access code you need to use MyLab & Mastering is packaged with your text book (if purchased new from the U Bookstore). If you have not already purchased access to MyLab & Mastering click the Students box in the horizontal bar near the top of the MyLab & Mastering page and then follow the instructions for registering and buying access.

    As stated above, if you purchased a used text, or did not purchase your new text from the U Bookstore, you may purchase an access code for MyLab & Mastering online by clicking the Students box in the horizontal bar near the top of the MyLab & Mastering web page and following the instructions. The MyLab & Mastering web site also contains additional online quizzes and exams that you may examine at your leisure to test your understanding of the course material. None of these online practice exams are graded as part of your course grade but are solely for your benefit to test your knowledge.

    Online Text Book

    If you prefer to purchase an online or printed copy of the text, visit the text web site and explore the options shown. Do not purchase your text for this course until you have read the information on the text book web page.

    Miscellaneous Information About MyLab & Mastering

    Please note: There is nothing to install on your computer; just use the web-based tools contained in MyLab & Mastering.

    You may also find the online Multimedia Library helpful. It contains an online version of the text, Student's Solution Manual, powerpoint slides, video lectures, statlets and access to StatCrunch - online statistical computing software. A version also exists for your mobile device. Please use them if you desire additional help. The Multimedia Library is accessible from the MyLab & Mastering web site after you login.

    In addition, when you purchase access to MyLab & Mastering, you have access to a Prentice-Hall Tutor available via telephone or email.

    To Return to:Q SCI 381, Center for Quantitative Science