Macquarie University

Consulting in Statistical Sciences - STAT399

This unit integrates the core concepts of previous statistics units in the practical context of solving real research problems by the application of statistical ideas and methods. In particular, the unit aims to give students exposure to the statistical and non-statistical issues that arise in statistical problem solving, and to provide an experiential background in statistical consulting. Students develop the ability to appreciate the nature of statistical problems and discuss the statistical problem solving cycle; listen to a client's statement of a problem and ask appropriate questions for clarification; recognise appropriate statistical techniques for use in a variety of problems, and apply these techniques competently; recognise situations in which familiar techniques do not apply and search the literature for appropriate alternative techniques; write reports at an appropriate statistical level for a client or a colleague; give a verbal summary of a statistical investigation at a level appropriate for the audience; and discuss the ethical aspects and implications of professional statistical work.