Prerequisites: Math 311 or equivalent
Time: 14:00-15:15 M W Chemistry 260
Text: Mathematical Statistics with Applications by Wackerly, Mendenhall and Scheaffer, Duxbury, 1996

Topics:

Chapter 7 Sampling Distributions and the Central Limit Theory
Chapter 8 Estimation
Chapter 9 The method of maximum likelihood
Test on Chapter 8 and 9
Chapter 10 Hypothesis Testing
Test on Chapter 10
Selected Topics from Chapter 11 Linear Models and Estimation by Least Squares

Final Exam:
The Final Exam will be on Thursday, May 11, 2000, 1400-1700.

University Policy on Examination Schedules: Examinations are given only during the scheduled examination period, and faculty members are not authorized to change the announced times of their examinations.

Objectives: This course aims to provide an understanding of the nature of statistical reasoning, to formulate the presuppositions needed to make such reasoning valid, and to acquire discernment concerning the validity of statistical deductions.

Topics are selected from:
(1) Development of the theory of specific probability distributions (such as the normal, binomial, Poisson, hypergeometric, gamma, Chi-square) and their use in sampling theory. Starting with a random sample, deciding on appropriate objectives and techniques for obtaining a point estimate of a parameter.
(2) The study of accuracy expected from a point estimate; confidence intervals and their meaning. Comparing two populations with a similar distribution but possibly distinct parameters. How large a sample is needed? Efficiency of estimators.
(3) Hypothesis testing: two types of error to be avoided. Choice of critical region for a hypothesis test: use of Neyman-Pearson likelihood ratio criteria.
(4) Introduction to linear models and the use of ANOVA methods for testing hypotheses. Simple regression problems. First introduction to the problem of correlation.

Students in this course are expected to learn which standard method is appropriate for the particular statistical analysis problem being considered and to be able to formulate the appropriate model for quantitative discussion of the problems. Homework assignments are an essential part of the course.

Tests and Homework: There are two tests and an exam. The tests are each worth 30% of the grade while the exam is worth 40%. Students will present some of the homework solutions in class at the board.

Grading Policy: 100-90 = A, 89-80 = B, 79-70 = C, 69-60 = D, less than 60 = F. Pluses and minuses will be given for scores at the top and bottom of the respective interval.

Attendance Policy: You are allowed four absences. This is about 14% of the class meetings. For each absence over four, the instructor may reduce your grade by 5%.  The grade will not be reduced below a C minus.

Office Hours: Monday 13:00 - 14:00, Wednesday 12:00 - 13:00 and by appointment.