MA 146: Intro to Statistics
ONLINE COURSE SYLLABUS
INSTRUCTOR:
Melonie Rasmussen, Associate Professor
Fort Steilacoom Campus Room #350
Online office hours will vary 7am – 2pm Monday-Friday
Send a Message through WAMAP (online homework system) www.wamap.org or
Email mrasmuss@pierce.ctc.edu if your question is private or personal.
I will check all messages two or three times during online office hours. Replies MAY take up to
24 hrs M-F. Replies left after 1pm on Friday may not receive a response until Monday morning.
REQUIRED MATERIALS:
Prerequisite: MA 098/MA 095 (2.0 or higher) or placement by compass exam
Computer Access: Regular & reliable online access (better than “dial-up” service)
Start the quarter with a back up plan, a nearby library or campus computer lab just incase your
home computer goes down. Also, consider printing materials just in case you lose connection.
Computer issues will not be accepted as an excuse for late work, you are responsible for having a
back up plan. DO NOT OPEN MORE THAN 1 WINDOW OF WAMAP while working on
graded material! It can & eventually will crash, refuse to accept your answers or just plain
mark your answers wrong even if you are right!
Software: Digital Video Tutor, Bundled w/ new text book or order separately.
PLEASE BUY THIS… since this is an online class the videos / calculator help card / SSM all
replace lecture in this class. Downloads, if needed, for using wamap are on the website.
www.wamap.org Both PUY & FS library have these videos. They must stay in the library & you
may borrow them for 2 hours there are also student suggested videos in the course shell.
Calculator: A graphing calculator is required; I recommend the TI-84+, this will be the only
“aide” you will have for the proctored midterm & final exam. The recommended calculator can
be RENTED from the Fort Steilacoom & Puyallup Libraries for $15.00 for the quarter, this
includes batteries. You are responsible for learning how to use your own calculator, some
instructions will be provided in WAMAP and you can also look online
Text: Elementary Statistics, 11th Edition by Mario F. Triola.
ELEM STATS CUSTOM BUNDLE W/SSM,CALC MN,DVDS (MSING CH 12-15)
TRIOLA ISBN:9780558318895 REQUIRED
Since this is an online class I highly recommend the bundle above, student solutions manual for
practicing the book questions, the Digital Video Tutor to replace lecture time and a calculator
guide (because I will not be teaching you how to use your calculator) New $127.50
used/$95.65. If you don’t want the custom book, you may purchase this book anywhere, BUT
please ensure you get the right book, 11th edition. If you choose not to get REQUIRED bundle
then plese do not complain about the course, this course is designed with the assumption that you
have done your part and bought the REQUIRED course materials.
The Peter Hartman book loan scholarship program is another way to get your math text,
apply online today! http://www.savingstudentsmoney.org/hartman
*Just in case you cannot get your book right now, the first two chapters & power point
slides are online and there are loaner copies in both the Ft. Steilacoom & Puyallup
Libraries (for up to 2 hours). – You must have your own book by the end of week 1
P2: MA 146 Intro to Statistics; ONLINE COURSE
About Taking an Online Course: Taking an online course for the first time can be a daunting
undertaking. If this is your first online class AND you have any type of math anxiety you may want to
consider taking a grounded math class or the 2 credit “Online Learning: Get Started” CIS 103, first. If you
choose to stay in this class, please be prepared to work hard and utilize the various learning tools like the
book, online resources, power points, videos and classmates, as the difficulty of the material increases.
More and more people are taking courses online mainly because of the convenience. This course is
asynchronous, which means students and the instructor are not necessarily online at the same time.
Messages are posted to the discussion boards by both students and facilitators any time of day or night.
The online classroom is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This allows you to take a class
anytime you want. The problem with this format is that students often procrastinate and assume that they
can finish an entire week’s material in one day, or they ask questions on the day the assignments are
due, and with the 24 hour response time, they don’t get help in time to do the work.
Most students will agree that online courses require more involvement time than traditional classes. It
is not uncommon to spend over 20 hours each week on a course. Many students complain, “The
teacher isn’t teaching me” … if you are the type of learner who needs to see the instructor work out
problems this course may not be for you. I have designed this course to give you learning tools that you
must take advantage of, like, reading the book, watching the videos, practicing the homework questions
in the book & checking them with the student solutions manual. The graded material is online, online
homework (that can be regenerated over & over again for your practice), online quizzes, online project
questions, & online forums to ask questions. IF YOU DON’T ASK QUESTIONS I HAVE NO IDEA THAT
YOU ARE STUCK OR LOST!!! I cannot see the confused look on your face so communication all I can do
is post answers to your questions. Again, asking questions on the due date in the evening is futile, I will
very rarely be online at night.
Getting Help: The discussion board is a forum where you can ask questions about the reading or
homework, and get help from me or your classmates. The idea is to have the class operate like a study
group - with all of you working together to further your learning. Please be specific when you ask
questions & site book or WAMAP problem when asking questions. POST THE QUESTION! Also, do not
post your graded homework question (that would be cheating) post the homework question & answer &
then regenerate a similar question so that you can try again after someone (or I ) have helped you!
Use the Discussion Board to ask for help on problems you don't understand how to do. If you do
understand how to do the problems, help out your classmates by answering questions.
I will monitor the homework discussion boards, and will respond to questions if they go unanswered, or if
someone provides an incorrect response. If you have additional questions, didn't understand the answer
someone gave you, or have a question that has gone unanswered, don't hesitate to email me and ask
questions. Please use the discussion boards first, so that others can benefit from your questions.
I can't stress enough that without being able to see the expression on your face, there's no way for me
to judge if you understand my or a fellow student's explanation to your questions. So, you need to be
proactive about your learning, and ask for more explanation when you need it. Again, you can do this via
email to me, or in the discussion boards.
Online Etiquette: Much has been written about online etiquette. The old saying, "Sticks and stones
may break my bones, but words will never hurt me." is suddenly untrue. Words are our sole means of
communication. Many times a sarcastic phase you make to a friend is softened with a smile or eye
contact. In an online situation, that same phrase can be very hurtful if read differently. Remember treat
everyone the same way you would want to be treated: with respect.
There are ways to express emotions without words. These are called emoticons. You've probably
seen several already in computer writing: ;-) :) etc. These represent emotions. They take the place of
body language and facial expressions that are a natural part of communication. In this setting, it's difficult
sometimes to discern between sarcasm and criticism. Using emoticons can often convey the context of
the comment when words can't. Please be direct in your questions & kind.
Most importantly, this class will be free of sexual, verbal, and racial discrimination or harassment.
P3: MA 146 Intro to Statistics; ONLINE COURSE
POTENTIAL METHODS AND TOOLS FOR ASSESSMENT APPROVED BY MATH
DEPARTMENT AND PIERCE COLLEGE
A. Traditional Quizzes and Examinations – multiple choice, true/false, computational, matching, or
short written answers.
B. Writing Assignments – projects, narrative explanation, essay.
C. Group and/or Individual Work – written solution to problems, long-term project, demonstration
using technology, or group discussion.
D. Traditional and/or Online Homework.
E. Informal Assessment – self-evaluation, peer evaluation, teacher observation.
GRADING GUIDELINES:
Midterm
20%
Final Exam
30%
Proctored closed book exams; Graphing Calculator Required
"Instructor provided pull-out only"= use the 8 page fold out in the book for reference
1 page handwritten notes on a regular sheet of paper (front & back ok)
Proctored means taken in a pre approved testing facility like FS testing center or PUY
library, or by an approved proctor before the end of week 2 on one of the dates given on
the calendar. Failure to test = 0 score
Quiz Scores
15%
Online in WAMAP (second attempt for partial credit will be given per question)
The Project
10%
Researching and performing statistical tests on data - weekly
2nd attempt to “redo” the entire project will be given at the end of the course during week
10. The entire project must be redone, not just parts of it. Because everyone has the
opportunity to redo this 15% there will be no curve on the final exam. You must decide to
redo the project & complete it before the final exam.
Section Homework
15%
Can be redone over & over (during the week) until a perfect score is reached this is where
your effort will reward you. Keep trying until you get your perfect score!
Participation on Discussion Forum
10%
Weekly required thoughtful discussion responses are required, original posts will be due by
Tuesday at midnight so that other students have a full 24 hours to read & reply to them.
Your grade will be translated into a decimal grade as follows:
Above 95% = 4.0
90% - 95%
3.5 – 4.0
A-, A
85% - 89%
3.0 – 3.4
B, B+
80% - 84%
2.5 – 2.9
B-, B
75% - 79%
2.0 – 2.4
C, C+
68% - 74%
1.5 – 1.9
C60%- 67%
0.7 – 1.4
D
<60%
0.0
F
Grades below 2.0 = mean you will need to repeat the course for most transfer students
P4: MA 146 Intro to Statistics; ONLINE COURSE CALENDAR: See chapter folders for more detail!
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
March 28th
Class opens @
midnight
APRIL 2nd
3rd
4th Try to have
Ch 1 &
surveys done!
11th CH 1 & 2
DUE - for all
9th
10th
Thursday
29th read
syllabus, email
survey results,
get started!!!
5th
12th
16
17
th
18th
CH 3 DUE
19th
23rd
24th
25th
CH 4 DUE
26th
30th
May 1st
7th
14th
6th
Last day to add &
100% refund day
even late adds
th
Friday
30th Get
ahead on Ch 1
&2
13th last day to
W (not on
transcript)
20th
50% refund day
27th
2nd
3rd
4th
*last
day
to
take
the
CH 5 DUE
midterm Ch 1-5 midterm Ch 1-5 midterm Ch 1-5
8th
9th
10th
11th College
CH 6 DUE
closed
*for
students done early
15th
16th
CH 7 DUE
17th
18th
*Last day to W (shows
up on transcript)
21st
22nd
23rd
CH 8 DUE
24th
25th
28th College
closed
29th
30th
CH 9 DUE
31st
1st
4th
5th
6th
CH 10 DUE
7th
8th
11th Ch 11 &
project redo
due. *FINALS
12th
13th
14th
15th
*FINALS
*FINALS
P5: MA 146 Intro to Statistics; ONLINE COURSE
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: I would recommend printing the calendar. You have roughly 1
week to complete each Chapter. This means READ the book, WATCH the videos, TRY the book
problems & check them before doing the graded work. Your weekly chapter graded assignments consist
of several homework assignments, project question, a discussion forum and the Chapter Quiz.
PROCTORED MIDTERM & FINAL: This means you will be required to physically go to a testing facility
show ID, and take the exams without your book or notebook. Scratch work will be required. The 8pg pull
out will be provided (like the one in your book) & you can bring 1 pg of notes & your calculator.
If you have a good reason to NOT test at the FS or PUY campus you must fill out the alternate proctor
form and submit it before the end of week 2, to the Distance learning office to ensure your proctor is
approved in time. Obtain an alternate proctor at either a public library or another colleges testing center or
library. No friends, family, co-workers, employers, or other local agencies will be accepted as a proctor.
COURSE CATALOG DESCRIPTION:
Introduction to the analysis of data using descriptive statistics, probability, and inferential statistics. Topics
include: data collection methods; measures of center and variation; graphical presentation of data;
probability; binomial and normal distributions; confidence intervals; hypothesis tests of one and two
parameters, using the normal, Student-t, and chi-square distributions; linear correlation and regression.
COURSE CONTENT OUTLINE: Descriptive Statistics/ Probability & Inferential statistics
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
Statistical vocabulary
Sampling methods and designs of statistical studies
Summarizing and describing data
Central tendency, variation, and distribution
Probability
Inferential
Basic probability
I. Confidence intervals
Counting methods
J. Hypothesis testing using the normal,
Discrete probability distributions
student-t, and Chi-square distribution
Continuous probability distributions
K. Linear correlation and regression
STUDENT OUTCOMES AS DEFINED BY THE MATH DEPARTMENT:
Descriptive Statistics
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Demonstrate appropriate use of statistical terms.
Identify and describe various sampling methods.
Identify components of experimental and observational studies.
Identify uses and misuses of statistics.
Construct appropriate representations of data, such as tables (contingency tables and
frequency distributions), and graphs (histograms, scatterplots, and boxplots), w & w/o technology.
Interpret and analyze various representations of data.
Calculate measures of center (mean, median, mode) with and without technology.
Calculate measures of variation (range, standard deviation, variance) with and without technology.
Identify various distributions (such as normal, uniform, skewed).
Probability
10. Understand and use probability vocabulary in context.
11. Calculate probability for simple & compound events using both empirical data and sample spaces.
12. Select and use appropriate counting methods (fundamental counting rule, permutations,
combinations).
13. Identify defining characteristics of discrete probability distributions.
14. Solve problems using discrete probability distributions, including binomial distributions.
15. Determine the mean and standard deviation of discrete probability distributions.
16. Identify defining characteristics of continuous probability distributions.
17. Solve problems using continuous distributions including uniform and normal distributions.
18. Apply the Central Limit Theorem to calculate the mean and standard deviation of sampling
distributions and use these to solve probability problems.
P6: MA 146 Intro to Statistics; ONLINE COURSE
STUDENT OUTCOMES: continued
Inferential Statistics
19. Determine appropriate sizes of samples.
20. Generate confidence intervals for means and proportions.
21. Select and perform hypothesis tests for the mean of one population, proportion of one population,
means of two populations, and proportions of two populations.
22. Use the chi-square distribution to perform a hypothesis test such as goodness-of-fit or test of
independence.
23. Analyze two-variable data using scatter plots, linear correlation coefficients, and linear regression
lines, using technology to calculate these items.
24. Determine whether there is a statistically significant linear correlation between two variables.
Communication and General Skills
25. Communicate the results of data analysis clearly and precisely in both technical and non-technical
words, including the use of the following: correct statistical vocabulary; graphical, symbolic, and numeric
support for conclusions; indications of the strength and limitations of conclusions.
26. Engage in experiential learning of key concepts through classroom activities and/or projects.
27. Draw logical conclusions related to a specific problem by integrating the use of the following:
sampling; summary statistics and presentation of data; and either confidence intervals, hypothesis tests
or regression analysis as appropriate.
CORE ABILITIES OUTCOMES:
CRITICAL, CREATIVE AND REFLECTIVE THINKING


Develop and apply a diverse body of statistical techniques to solve problems by analyzing data and
drawing conclusions.
Combine reason, experience, and information from this course, other courses, and earlier life
experiences to: (a) determine methods of solution for problems, then (b) apply those methods, and
finally (c) judge whether solutions are reasonable and significant.
EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION

Communicate the results, methods and reasoning of data analysis clearly and precisely using
statistical vocabulary, visual presentations, and numerical support in a way that is appropriate for
the audience
Responsibility

Recognize that one’s own choices with respect to participating in the course (such as completing
assignments on time, participating in class regularly, and posing questions to clarify topics) have an
impact on one’s success in the course and an impact on the other students in the course.
Academic Dishonesty:
May result in disciplinary actions as outlined in the Student Code of Conduct. Cheating will not be
tolerated. Knowledge of the information contained in these documents is the student’s responsibility.
http://www.pierce.ctc.edu/whois/codeofconduct.php3
Late work policy
All of the due dates for Chapter work are posted. You can work ahead but I don’t want you to fall behind.
With all material given ahead of time, very little exception will be granted to this policy. To account for
“emergencies” 5 late passes will be given for WAMAP graded assignments only (Quiz/Homework/Project
questions only). They must be applied BEFORE the assignment is due. Student who do not use late
passes will earn 5 pts each for extra credit. ( better to use them if the assignment is worth > 5pts)
P7: MA 146 Intro to Statistics; ONLINE COURSE
MIDTERM & FINAL EXAM: There are 2 major exams. You are expected to take each exam
during the scheduled time. Both exams will be proctored, CLOSED BOOK, and comprehensive. The
majority of your grade will come from these two exams. Scratch work is REQUIRED, please practice
showing neat & numbered scratch work. You will have the 8 page pull out & 1 page of handwritten
notes (both sides is 0K) LEARN to use your calculator, you will not have access to excel or stat disc.
Remember the calculator guide came in your packet & you can rent one for $15. Please practice
your work items without your book or notes, also review all assignments before taking the exams
CHAPTERS & SECTIONS COVERED:
*All sections listed should be read for understanding, and learned without the aid of the text.
Chapter 1 – Introduction to Statistics - All
Chapter 2 – Summarizing and Graphing Data - All
Chapter 3 – Statistics for Describing, Exploring, and Comparing Data - All
Chapter 4 – Probability – Sections 4.1 – 4.5, 4.7
Chapter 5 – Discrete Probability Distributions – Sections 5.1 – 5.4
*Midterm: Chapters 1 – 5; Descriptive Statistics & Probability
Student Outcomes: 1 – 15, 25
YOU MUST TEST ON 1 of the 3 days on the syllabus calendar
Chapter 6 – Normal Probability Distributions – Sections 6.1 – 6.5
Chapter 7 – Estimates and Sample Sizes – Sections 7.1 – 7.4 (7.5 read only)
Chapter 8 – Hypothesis Testing – Sections 8.1 – 8.5, (8.6 read only)
Chapter 9 – Inferences from Two Samples – Sections 9.1 – 9.4
Chapter 10 – Correlation and Regression – Sections 10.1 – 10.4
*Final Exam: Main focus Chapters 6–11;Student Outcomes: 16 - 27
Knowledge from Ch 1 – 5 will be required on the final as well
YOU MUST TEST ON 1 of the 3 days on the syllabus calendar
*Project: Student Outcomes 25-27
Project will be a comprehensive study of data, covering most chapters in the text
and your progress will be monitored weekly. Each weekly assignment must be
completed on time. At the end of the course you will have the opportunity to repeat the
entire project to improve your grade. The second attempt is optional and will not hurt
your grade. The entire project must be reattempted, not just parts of it, because an entirely
new data set will be given. Partial credit will be given
*Quiz: 1 Quiz each week on the Chapter(s) material (the lowest quiz will be dropped)
*Homework & Discussion:
Discussion board participation is required. Often a conversation about the
material can help your understanding.
(Participating in the homework forum is desired)
Section homework in WAMAP required / book work recommended.
P8: MA 146 Intro to Statistics; ONLINE COURSE
SUGGESTED WEEKLY GUIDELINES:
1. READ THE BOOK! (often in lecture classes this is not necessary because the
teacher delivers the material..here it is VITAL that you read your text)
2. Watch the Section Video / RE-Read the section / Review power point slides
3. Read the discussion item (and the example & do it if you feel ready) – often
completing the discussion item will give you insight to the homework.
4. Try Section homework (book first then online) without book/video/slides
5. Practice using your calculator & using calculator functions
6. Check answers – (relearn from missed questions)
7. Re-read, watch video or view power point slides as necessary
8. Correct any homework mistakes (redo online homework until its perfect)
9. Seek help (post/read discussion items on homework and ask questions)
10. After successful homework & discussion item, start to work on the Project
11. AFTER completing the project & perfecting your homework take the QUIZ
**Remember each week your homework, project, discussion participation and quiz are all
listed on the calendar of due dates & details are in the Chapter folders. Late work is not
acceptable as you are given the entire course up front & 5 late passes for emergencies (you
must click USE late pass before it is due / it only extends the assignment for 24 hours)
Educational Support: I encourage and highly recommend utilizing the tutorial center, video
support, homework assignments, additional practice or obtain an individual tutor if needed. I also
recommend you work in your assigned groups and contact me frequently. Online tutorial center
is available as well http://www.pierce.ctc.edu/edsupport/asc/online.php
Additionally, I recommend you utilize:
Library resources http://www.pierce.ctc.edu/Library/
&
Computer labs http://www.pierce.ctc.edu/IT/CAC/home.html
Students with disabilities who believe they may need academic adjustments, auxiliary aids
or services to fully participate in course activities or meet course requirements are
encouraged to register with the Access & Disability Support Services within the first week of
the course.
Contact information & steps to access services can be found at the following links
Pierce College's ADA policy / guidelines / and contact information:Pierce College Access &
Disability Services Website
Angel Course Management System: Angel Access & Disability Services Website
WAMAP as an additional Software Tool:WAMAP Access & Disability Services Statement