James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2003

BS2001:03

Biometrics

Townsville HECS Band 2

36 hours lectures, 26 hours tutorials. Semester 1.

Staff: Dr S Robson.

The ability to design experiments and interpret and evaluate the results is a skill required by all biologists. Students will develop these skills through exposure to the following topics: experimental and survey designs for biologists; data collection, analysis and graphical presentation; descriptive statistics; hypothesis testing; ANOVA designs, correlation and regression techniques; introduction to multivariate methods; analysis of frequency distributions; non-parametric equivalents and the use of appropriate computer software packages for biological data management and analysis (SPSS).

Learning Objectives:

  1. to develop skills in selecting and applying appropriate analytical methods to biological and ecological data;
  2. to develop the necessary computer skills for data management, analysis and graphical presentation;
  3. to develop skills in the design, execution and reporting of biological and ecological experiments and survey programs.

Assessment by weekly tutorial assignments (40%); one mid-term examination (15%); one final examination (45%).