COURSE INFORMATION

Prerequisites:               MATH 150 College Algebra

Required Texts:

1- Statistics Plain and Simple, 2005 edition, Jackson, Sherri L., Wadsworth

2- SPSS Software       

Course description:     The study of parametric and nonparametric statistics commonly used in the behavioral sciences. Included will be analyses of relationship and variance, as well as effect sizes associated with each.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

1.        Demonstrate the ability to correctly choose the appropriate

            statistical test for a given set of data

2.         Demonstrate the ability to compute basic parametric and nonparametric statistics

3.         Demonstrate the ability to interpret the results of statistical analyses

4.         Demonstrate the ability to use a scientific calculator and a packaged computer program (e.g. Statistica, SAS, SPSS, etc.) to compute statistics

COURSE ORGANIZATION

Tentative schedule of topics and dates:

           After the first class meeting, our goal will be to work on two chapters from this main text per week. Our goal is not to do the whole book, but make adjustments, as needed, along the way. The practical application of statistics is our overall goal.

You need to read ahead and, before that class period, DO the problems online at the end of each assigned chapter. Then submit your answers.

To help ensure that you are doing the work and have reasonable understanding of it, occasional random quizzes may be given in class (closed book, closed note, and multiple choice) to help determine how well you are learning this material. The results of those quizzes will influence the results of your grades on these assignments.

Tentative schedule for tests:

            There will be exams every two weeks along with any  random quizzes. The exams will usually be multiple choice and will be found on this class website. They will consist of information from class as well as texts.

Instructional Methods:                                                                                                                    Lecture,

Lectures, discussions, and group projects will be used to help you learn the material. An occassional video may be used and computer homework will be done in the computer lab (as available). You are expected to remain for the entire class period unless other wise instructed. There also may be class projects outside of the class room that you will need to take a part in.  

    EXPECTED LEARNING OUTCOMES

            Specific objectives or expected learning outcomes

1. Demonstrate the ability to correctly choose the appropriate statistical test for a given set of data.

2.   Demonstrate the ability to compute basic parametric and nonparametric statistics

3.   Demonstrate the ability to interpret the results of statistical analyses

4.   Demonstrate the ability to use a scientific calculator and a packaged computer program (e.g. Statistica, SAS, SPSS, etc.) to compute statistics

EVALUATION

            Number of quizzes or tests to be administered:

            There will be exams every two weeks  along with the random quizzes. The exams will usually be multiple choice and will be found on the class website. They will consist of information from class as well as texts. The top 2 Midterm scores and the Final will be used in calculating your final grade (we will drop the lowest Midterm score). Also import to your final grade are the computer assignments and attendance.  

Weighting Scale (percentages attributed to various evaluative methods to arrive at final grade)

Attendance and co-operative participation:             10%

Homework Assignments                                             20%

Top 2 Midterm Exams (each weighed the same):  20%@

Final Exam (both inclass and SPSS)                         30%

                                                                Total:              100%

Grading scale (score equivalents of letter grades 
          Your grades can NOT be given over the phone. Submit a stamped, self-addressed envelope for this purpose if you don't wish to wait for the regular grade report.

Letter Grade…..Instructor Evaluation…….Percentage Earned
"A" ...................excellent performance................   93% +
"B" ...................substantial achievement.............   83% +
"C" ...................standard achievement.................   65% +
"D" ..................marginal achievement.................   55% +
"E"....................unsatisfactory performance........  54% and below

COURSE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Attendance

There is much to learn in this statistics class, so your attendance to the full length of each class session and your participation during class is vital to your success. They will be noted toward your final grade.

Academic honesty

It is common to learn by making mistakes in statistics. That is why honesty is so important—you can not learn how to do it right if you are hiding something or using other student’s work to get by.

Student Conduct

For many students, statistics is a tough class.  It requires you to remember your prior algebra courses, to learn some Greek letters, and to critically think through stats problems. In this process, student patience and co-operation is vital to keep the stress levels as low as possible.    

Make up examinations

Most exams will be online at the class website for a week or two prior to their deadline. These tests can be turned in early or on time, but not late.

The tests given in class (quizzes) can be made up on the next class session.

Assignments

The class syllabus should be consulted before each class session, as your assignments, some tests, and other items will be posted on it. 

ADA Statement:

Students with documented disabilities who may need academic adjustments or auxiliary aids or services for this course are required to contact the Site Director