SEME/MME 524-25: Probability, Statistics and Data Analysis I, II

This course introduces students to probability, the mathematical description of random phenomena, and to statistics, the science of data. Students in this course will acquire the following knowledge and skills: • Probability models-mathematical models used to describe and predict random phenomena. Students will learn several basic probability models and their uses, and will obtain experience in modeling random phenomena. • Data analysis-the art/science of finding patterns in data and using those patterns to explain the process which produced the data. Students will be able to explore and draw conclusions about data using computational and graphical methods. The iterative nature of statistical exploration will be emphasized. • Statistical inference and modeling-the use of data sampled from a process and the probability model of that process to draw conclusions about the process. Students will attain proficiency in selecting, fitting and criticizing models, and in drawing inference from data. • Design of experiments and sampling studies — the proper way to design experiments and sampling studies so that statistically valid inferences can be drawn. Special attention will be given to the role of experiments and sampling studies in scientific investigation. Through lab and project work, students will obtain practical skills in designing and analyzing studies and experiments. Course topics will be motivated whenever possible by applications and reinforced by experimental and computer lab experiences. One in-depth project per semester involving design, data collection, and statistical or probabilistic analysis will serve to integrate and consolidate student skills and understanding. Students will be expected to learn and use a statistical computer package such as MINITAB.