Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

The unit introduces students to data collection and analysis to investigate questions relevant to research in the natural sciences. These methods, such as ANOVA and linear regression, are demonstrated and practised in a computer laboratory environment using experimental and observational data. Throughout the unit, scientific interpretation and hypothesis testing are emphasised. Students develop the knowledge to analyse data and explain the data using models. They learn to recognise the appropriate statistical technique for different types of data, and also learn how to obtain results using computer software. This unit equips students with knowledge and skills that they need to undertake research in their honours or master's thesis and beyond in private or public employment.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1OnlineOnline timetabled
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Semester 2OnlineOnline timetabled
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) collect and interpret observational data; (2) formulate and test scientific hypotheses; (3) demonstrate an understanding of statistical methods such as ANOVA and linear regression; and (4) use computer spreadsheets and statistical software such as R/Rstudio to do professional quality data analysis, graphics and reporting.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) assignments; (2) quizzes; and (3) participation and tutorial activities. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Associate Professor Atakelty Hailu
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Enrolment in
72510 Master of Agricultural Science
or 72520 Master of Biological Science
or 72530 Master of Environmental Science
or 72550 Master of Geoscience
or 72540 Master of Hydrogeology
or 71520 Master of Biomedical Science
or 71580 Master of Biotechnology
or 71570 Master of Geographic Information Science
or 73530 Master of Agricultural Economics
or 73550 Master of Business Psychology
or 70550 Master of Bioinformatics
or 71590 Master of Oceanography
or 74540 Master of Marine Biology
Incompatibility
STAT1400 Statistics for Science
or STAX1400 Statistics for Science
and
STAT1520 Economic and Business Statistics
or STAX1520 Economic and Business Statistics
and SCIE1104 Science, Society and Data Analysis
Contact hours
24 hours. The total workload for this unit is 150 hours.
Texts

The required readings for this unit are identified in the unit outline.

  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.