What you will study
This key introductory statistics module is designed for people who have not studied statistics before. It focuses on the application of statistics, adopting the attitude that statistics is about solving problems. The module is data driven. We collect relevant data and we analyse them to answer the problems. The methods that are covered are not specific to one field of application alone, but apply to all areas in which statistics is used.
The materials contain exercises to help you both learn and to monitor your progress. Most exercises involve calculations you’ll do by hand or with a calculator, but some you’ll do using the software Minitab, which we’ll supply and teach you to use. Please note that Minitab runs only on Windows; any other operating system is unsuitable. You’ll also develop skills in interpreting and communicating your results, and we’ll assess this
Providing you have the appropriate background knowledge (see Entry Requirements) you should expect to study for about nine hours a week. Many of the topics covered in the module depend on your understanding of topics in earlier units. So, if you have not adequately understood earlier material, you may find later material difficult and time consuming.
You can find the full content list on the Open mathematics and statistics website.
You will learn
Successful study of this module should begin to develop your statistical skills and enable you to analyse common forms of data so as to address practical problems.
You will learn about:
- key ideas in statistics
- statistical vocabulary and notation introduced in the module
- selection and use of statistical techniques for exploring data
- interpretation of results in the context of real life questions
- communication of results
- use of statistical software
- use of relevant ICT tools for learning.
The module contains many data from real world situations based around three themes: economics, education and health.
Professional recognition
This module may help you to gain membership of the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA). For further information, see the IMA website.
This module may also help you to apply for the professional award of Graduate Statistician conferred by The Royal Statistical Society (RSS).