PSY 3400—This undergraduate course in statistics provides instruction on the mathematical and logical
basics and applications of statistical methods, including the inferential logic of null hypothesis
significance testing and operations commonly used in statistics (e.g., probability calculations; summation
notation), all of which are taught in the context of statistical problem solving. The required lab provides
review of hand calculation methods and instruction on the corresponding computer functions. Based on
assessments of student performance collected during Spring 2011, the course has been adjusted to
close the loop in several ways:
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The primary mode of content delivery during lectures was changed from PowerPoint slides only
to primarily lecturing from the blackboard, with supporting visual aids delivered via PowerPoint
Prior to each exam, review sections led by course teaching assistants are provided to students to
improve their comprehension of the material by reviewing basic concepts and through guided
practice
Because lecture material often goes beyond material provided in the book, grading has been
adjusted to give students partial participation credit for attending lectures
Lecture materials have been expanded to more comprehensively cover the mathematical basics
and essential logic of statistical analysis (prior to 2011 PSY 3400 was primarily an applicationbased course)
Though the assessment materials themselves have not undergone significant changes since Spring 2011,
the effectiveness of these changes can be seen in students mean final averages in the course having
risen from 70.0 and 71.84 (two sections offered in Spring 2011) to 75.92 (Fall 2011), 81.47 (Spring 2012),
and 80.81 (Fall 2012). As of today, students taking the course in the current semester (Spring 2013)
have an overall average grade of 75.86. However, because students traditionally do poorest on the first
exam, the average grade for the current semester is expected to rise following the final exam.