Course Syllabus

Biostatistics click here for the fall syllabus

Semester & Location:	Summer 2022 - DIS Stockholm
Type & Credits:	Elective Course - 3 credits
Major Disciplines:	Mathematics, Biology, Engineering
Prerequisite(s):	Two mathematics courses, and two courses in basic science (biology, chemistry, physics), at university level
Faculty Members:	TBA
Program Director:	Natalia Landázuri Sáenz, PhD - Interim Program Director
Time & Place:	TBA

Description of Course

This is an introduction to statistical methods for the analysis of biological data. Emphasizing both a conceptual understanding and analysis of real data sets, the course covers biological experiment design, methods of data collection, and analysis of small and large data sets with examples drawn from microbiology, medical research, and ecology. To conduct statistical analyses, you are introduced to R and R-Studio (or equivalent statistical software). 

The course is structured as follows:

Module 1: Design of experiments

• Importance of appropriate experimental designs in life sciences
• Research questions within life sciences
• Hypothesis generation

Module 2: Data analysis and statistical comparisons

• Basic statistical measures-measures of central tendency
• Probability and sampling distribution
• Hypothesis testing involving two samples
• Analysis of variance (ANOVA)

Module 3: Correlation and linear regression

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

- Describe experimental designs utilized within biological sciences or related fields

- Identify and propose suitable experimental designs to test given hypotheses within biological sciences or related fields

- Identify and utilize appropriate statistical tests to analyze datasets and draw conclusions

- Utilize R to conduct statistical analysis utilizing  real datasets

- Critically analyze the validity of chosen statistical analyses from published scientific studies

Faculty

TBA

Readings

Field Studies

Students participate in two field studies, where they visit local researchers to learn about real experiments currently conducted within biological, biomedical or ecological sciences. Students analyze datasets generated by these researchers, conduct statistical analysis and draw conclusions.

Visits may include research centers at SciLifeLab, Karolinska Insitutet or Kungliga Tekniska Högskolan.

Guest Lectures

TBA

Approach to Teaching

We use various teaching methods, including interactive lectures, class discussions, workshops,  and group exercises. Students take an active role in their learning by actively engaging in discussions and group work. 

Expectations of the Students

• Students should participate actively during lectures, discussions, group work and exercises.
• Laptops may be used for note‐taking, fact‐checking, or assignments in the classroom, but only when indicated by the instructor. At all other times laptops and electronic devices should be put away during class time.
• Reading must be done prior to the class session. 
• Students need to be present, arrive on time and participate o receive full credit. The final grade will be affected by unexcused absences and lack of participation. The participation grade will be reduced by 10 points (over 100) for every unexcused absence. Remember to be in class on time!
• Classroom etiquette includes being respectful of other opinions, listening to others and entering a dialogue in a constructive manner.
• Students are expected to ask relevant questions in regards to the material covered.

Evaluation

To be eligible for a passing grade in this class, all of the assigned work must be completed.

Students are expected to turn in all the assignments on the due date. If an assignment is turned in after the due date, the grade of the assignment will be reduced by 10 points (over 100) for each day the submission is late.

Grading

Active participation. Includes attendance, preparation for lectures and other sessions, active participation in learning activities and class discussions 

Exams. Exams to evaluate understanding of material covered in class

Assignments:  Assignments related to field studies and to analysis of scientific publications, quizzes related to reading material

Final project: At the end of the semester, students will work on a project where they apply the knowledge acquired in class to analyze a data set generated within biological, biomedical or ecological sciences. Students will utilize R to complete this project. 

Active participation	10%
Assignments	20%
Exams	50%
Final project	20%

 

Academic Regulations  

Please make sure to read the Academic Regulations on the DIS website. There you will find regulations on:

• Course Enrollment and Grading
• Academic Expectations and Honor Code

DIS - Study Abroad in Scandinavia - www.DISabroad.org