BIOS6910

Biostatistics A

10 Units 6000 Level Course

Available in 2012

Callaghan CampusSemester 1
WebLearn GradSchool.comSemester 1

Previously offered in 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004

The aim is to provide students with an understanding of statistical reasoning and its application to epidemiological studies and the ability to read and critically evaluate the statistical section of journal articles. The course introduces basic statistical concepts of data presentation, probability distributions, confidence intervals hypothesis testing, sample size and power.

ObjectivesObjectives of the course are for the student to:
-Understand the use of and be able to calculate probabilities associated with commonly used distributions, such as Normal, Binomial and t distributions and to be able to determine if data are normally distributed,
-Understand processes involved in data analysis and carry out exploratory data analysis,
-Be familiar with the use and assumptions of confidence intervals and be able to calculate and interpret confidence intervals for means and proportions
-Understand the concept of hypothesis testing and be able to undertake hypothesis tests relating to means and proportions,
-Discuss the difference between statistical and medical significance,
-Understand the concept of study power and the importance of a Type II error,
-Understand the importance of calculating sample size before commencing a study and be able to calculate sample size for common situations relating to means and proportions,
-Interpret results of commonly used statistical methods as they are presented in published literature.
Content-Introduction
-STATA Resource Kit
-Exploratory data analysis;
-Sampling distributions and confidence
-Hypothesis testing,
-Sample size
-Statistical Methods
The course includes practical exercises to illustrate the different concepts outlined, self assessment exercises, progress assignments with model answers and practical computing exercises requiring interpretation and presentation of results.
Replacing Course(s)N/A
TransitionN/A
Industrial Experience0
Assumed KnowledgeBasic mathematical concepts; no other assumed knowledge.
Teaching MethodsEmail Discussion Group
Self Directed Learning
Assessment Items
Essays / Written Assignments6 Progress Assignments which do not carry any weighting. 2 Marked Assignments.
MA1 worth 20%, MA2 worth 35%.
Examination: Take HomeTake Home Exam is worth 45%.
Contact HoursEmail Discussion Group: for 2 hour(s) per Week for Full Term
Tutorial: for 2 hour(s) per Week for Full Term