MAS2906 : Computational Probability and Statistics with R
MAS2906 : Computational Probability and Statistics with R
- Offered for Year: 2024/25
- Module Leader(s): Dr Lee Fawcett
- Owning School: Mathematics, Statistics and Physics
- Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters
Your programme is made up of credits, the total differs on programme to programme.
Semester 1 Credit Value: | 10 |
ECTS Credits: | 5.0 |
European Credit Transfer System | |
Pre-requisite
Modules you must have done previously to study this module
Pre Requisite Comment
N/A
Co-Requisite
Modules you need to take at the same time
Code | Title |
---|---|
MAS2901 | Introduction to Statistical Inference |
MAS2902 | Introduction to Regression and Stochastic Modelling |
Co Requisite Comment
N/A
Aims
To introduce and reinforce a range of concepts in probability and statistics with particular emphasis on illustrations in R, including methods that will be useful towards future project work. To reinforce the computing in R studied within MAS1608, and to move towards expectations of more independent programming.
Module summary
Computational methods are of great use in a wide range of applications of probability and statistics. This module builds on the probability and the use of R introduced at Stage 1. Students will be introduced to additional concepts and techniques, some of increasing mathematical and computational sophistication. In implementing these methods, students will attain a deeper understanding of foundational probability and statistics, increasing competence with mathematical/statistical computing, and an increasing ability to use such methods independently, towards project-orientated goals.
Outline Of Syllabus
Review of basic ideas in R: Vector and dataframe subsetting and manipulation, data summaries, functions and control statements. Review of probability ideas: illustrations of properties of univariate, bivariate and trivariate distributions in R, including use of conditional distributions. Transformations of random variables, with illustrations in R. Sampling distributions. Illustration of properties of hypothesis tests and confidence intervals.
Learning Outcomes
Intended Knowledge Outcomes
Students will consolidate and expand their knowledge of probability and statistics. Students will also consolidate and expand their knowledge of computational methods in probability and statistics, including specific knowledge of R.
Intended Skill Outcomes
Students will consolidate and expand their practical skills in using R to solve problems in a widening range of applications in probability and statistics. They will also develop increasing ability to program independently, less constrained by specific set problems.
Students will develop skills across the cognitive domain (Bloom’s taxonomy, 2001 revised edition): remember, understand, apply, analyse, evaluate and create.
Teaching Methods
Teaching Activities
Category | Activity | Number | Length | Student Hours | Comment |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 11 | 1:00 | 11:00 | Formal Lectures |
Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 41 | 1:00 | 41:00 | Preparation time for lectures, background reading, coursework review |
Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Practical | 11 | 2:00 | 22:00 | Computer Practicals |
Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Drop-in/surgery | 5 | 1:00 | 5:00 | Drop in sessions |
Guided Independent Study | Independent study | 21 | 1:00 | 21:00 | Completion of in course assessments |
Total | 100:00 |
Teaching Rationale And Relationship
The teaching methods are appropriate to allow students to develop a wide range of skills, from understanding basic concepts and facts to higher-order thinking. Practicals are used for the delivery of theory and explanation of methods, illustrated with examples, and for giving general feedback on marked work. Problem Classes are used to help develop the students’ abilities at applying the theory to solving problems.
Reading Lists
Assessment Methods
The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners
Exams
Description | Length | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Digital Examination | 120 | 1 | A | 70 | Numbas, in person |
Other Assessment
Description | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
---|---|---|---|---|
Prob solv exercises | 1 | M | 15 | Problem-solving exercises assessment |
Prob solv exercises | 1 | M | 15 | Problem-solving exercises assessment |
Assessment Rationale And Relationship
A substantial class test is appropriate for the assessment of the material in this module. The format will enable students to reliably demonstrate their own knowledge, understanding and application of learning outcomes. The assurance of academic integrity forms a necessary part of the programme accreditation.
Exam problems may require a synthesis of concepts and strategies from different sections, while they may have more than one ways for solution. The examination time allows the students to test different strategies, work out examples and gather evidence for deciding on an effective strategy, while carefully articulating their ideas and explicitly citing the theory they are using.
The coursework assignments allow the students to develop their problem solving techniques, to practise the methods learnt in the module, to assess their progress and to receive feedback; these assessments have a secondary formative purpose as well as their primary summative purpose.
Timetable
- Timetable Website: www.ncl.ac.uk/timetable/
- MAS2906's Timetable
Past Exam Papers
- Exam Papers Online : www.ncl.ac.uk/exam.papers/
- MAS2906's past Exam Papers
General Notes
N/A
Welcome to Newcastle University Module Catalogue
This is where you will be able to find all key information about modules on your programme of study. It will help you make an informed decision on the options available to you within your programme.
You may have some queries about the modules available to you. Your school office will be able to signpost you to someone who will support you with any queries.
Disclaimer
The information contained within the Module Catalogue relates to the 2024 academic year.
In accordance with University Terms and Conditions, the University makes all reasonable efforts to deliver the modules as described.
Modules may be amended on an annual basis to take account of changing staff expertise, developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback. Module information for the 2025/26 entry will be published here in early-April 2025. Queries about information in the Module Catalogue should in the first instance be addressed to your School Office.