ASMC01-Quantitative methods for the life sciences
Module Provider: Mathematics and Statistics
Number of credits: 10 [5ECTS credits]
Level:
7
Terms in which taught: Spring
Module Convenor: Mr
AA
Leidi
Pre-requisites: Knowledge of basic statistics at undergraduate level, basic computing skills and familiarity with the Windows environment
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Module version for: 2011/2
Email: A.A.Leidi@reading.ac.uk
Aims:
This module aims to explain the role of statistics in research and to equip students with appropriate skills for all stages of research: from design of a study, through analysis of the data, to presentation of results.
Assessable learning outcomes:
On completion of this module it is expected that students will have acquired:
an awareness of the role of statistics in the life sciences research for designing each element of a research study; and
the ability to analyse and report the results from such studies.
Additional outcomes:
Experience in conducting computer-based analyses using the statistical package GenStat.
Outline content:
Planning the design of experiments and field studies.
GenStat statistical package: exploratory stage.
Inference methods and modelling ideas; Dealing with common complications.
Aspects of analysis of designed studies associated with experimental layout, level of measurements and treatment structure.
Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Topics are presented using PowerPoint, followed by live demonstrations on the use of GenStat for sound computing practice.
Basic computing skills are required, particularly familiarity with the Windows environment.
Recommended reading:
Grafen, A and Hails, R (2002). Modern Statistics for the Life Sciences, Oxford University Press.
Mead, R, Curnow, R N and Hasted, A M (2002). Statistical Methods in Agriculture and Experimental Biology. 3rd edition, Chapman & Hall.
Krzanowski, W.J. (1998) An Introduction to Statistical Modelling, Arnold.
Ruxton, D., and Colegrave, N. (2003) Experimental Design for the Life Sciences, Oxford University Press.
Contact hours:
| |
Autumn |
Spring |
Summer |
| Lectures |
|
20 |
|
| Tutorials/seminars |
|
|
|
| Practicals |
|
|
|
| Other contact (eg study visits) |
|
|
|
| Total hours |
|
20 |
|
| Number of essays or assignments |
|
2 |
|
| Other (eg major seminar paper) |
|
|
|
Assessment:
Coursework
Students independently write two assignments on given aspects of statistics (100% of the overall mark of the module).
Penalties for late submission
In accordance with University policy.
Requirement for a pass
Pass mark of at least 50%.
Reassessment arrangements
One two-hour paper taken in the following August/September.
Last updated: 12 July 2011