Time Schedule:
Norman Breslow
BIOST 579
Seattle Campus
Analysis of real data to answer scientific questions. Common data-analytic problems. Sensible approaches to complex data. Graphical and tabular presentation of results. Writing reports for scientific journals, research collaborators, consulting clients. Graduate standing in statistics or biostatistics or permission of instructor. Offered: jointly with STAT 579; AWSp.
Class description
This class is intended as an adjunct or sequel to Biostat/Stat 570-1 to give doctoral students hands on experience in statistical applications as preparation for the second year qualifying examination in applied statistics
Student learning goals
State scientific hypotheses in quantitative terms
Develop statistical models designed to answer specific scientific questions
Identify different sources of unexplained (random) variation and account for them by use of appropriate statistical models
Fit appropriate statistical models to study data and interpret the results of the fits
Write the Methods and Results section of a scientific paper to succinctly describe the scientific and statistical methods and the major findings using clear, concise language understandable to non-specialists
Write and deliver a complete scientific paper with Abstract, Introduction (background and goals), Methods, Results and Discussion/conclusions that includes consideration of study and statistical limitations
General method of instruction
During Spring quarter, most class time is devoted to student reports of their analyses of datasets assigned by the instructor and to discussion of those reports.
Recommended preparation
Graduate instruction in biostatistics or statistics including the second year PhD level courses in applied statistics (B/Stat 570-1) or equivalent
Class assignments and grading
Oral and carefully written presentation of data analyses and complete scientific papers
The course is graded credit/no credit. Credit is given for satisfactory completion of written assignments, oral presentations and contribution to the class discussion.
