BIMQM-Quantitative Methods

Module Provider: School of Biological Sciences
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2020/1

Email: t.oliver@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module aims to introduce students to the ‘R’ statistical software which is commonly used in the natural and social sciences. The module will introduce students to the generation of ‘R’ code to analyse and present data for use in written and oral reports. The module will focus on the generation of graphs, manipulation of data, and the analysis of data using some simple statistical procedures.

Aims:

This module aims to introduce students to the use of ‘R’.

Assessable learning outcomes:

On completion of this module it is expected that the students will have acquired an understanding of:

the construction of ‘R’ code

• the use of ‘R’ to generate graphs and tables


• the use of ‘R’ to carry out basic statistical analysis.


• the use of the R statistical software and RStudio interface.

Additional outcomes:

• An appreciation of the importance of good data management practices


• Data manipulation skills (e.g. importing data, re-ordering tables, taking subsets of data) and running automated analyses using R-scripts.

Outline content:

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Each topic will typically be broken down into a brief lecture, which introduces the topic, followed by computer session where students are provided with coding activities in order to immediately apply and practice the techniques learnt in the lecture.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Students will be asked to carry out a practical assignment that demonstrates their aptitude at ‘R’ coding, data set generation, analysis and presentation

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:

A mark of at least 50% 

Reassessment arrangements:

Re-examination in August/September 

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

Last updated: 7 April 2020