This course will explore the ways biologists generate and assess evidence applying a variety of statistical techniques. The use of biological models from bacteria, plants and animals will be discussed, with their advantages and limitations. The value of different experimental approaches including hypothesis-driven research and large scale data generation, such as genome sequencing projects will be considered. Quantitative reasoning and analysis will be introduced with examples of its application to biological problems. Students will participate in practical exercises to develop and test hypotheses and then, as a group, compare and contrast the application of statistical approaches to interpret the data.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
- Apply an advanced understanding of when to apply different experimental approaches in biology and how to use experimental models.
- Design biological experiments to address critical questions in biology.
- Demonstrate technical proficiency, appropriate analysis and interpretation of qualitative and quantitative data
- Describe, apply, and critically assess the results of relevant statistical techniques in the context of the analysis of biological measurements
- Integrate and apply the knowledge gained from specific research projects to problem solving in other areas of biology.
Indicative Assessment
• Lab report (2 x 5%, LO 2, 3, 4, 5)
• Assignments and problem sets (4 x 10%, LO 1, 3, 4)
• Mid-term quiz (10%, LO 1, 3, 4)
• Extra Writing Assignment (10%; LO 1, 5)
• Final Exam (30%; LO 1, 4, 5)
The ANU uses Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. While the use of Turnitin is not mandatory, the ANU highly recommends Turnitin is used by both teaching staff and students. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website.
Workload
Two lectures and one computer practical per week, up to 65 contact hours per semester.Requisite and Incompatibility
You will need to contact the Biology Teaching and Learning Centre to request a permission code to enrol in this course.
Assumed Knowledge
Bachelor degree with first year biology; some knowledge of statistics.
Fees
Tuition fees are for the academic year indicated at the top of the page.
If you are a domestic graduate coursework or international student you will be required to pay tuition fees. Tuition fees are indexed annually. Further information for domestic and international students about tuition and other fees can be found at Fees.
- Student Contribution Band:
- 2
- Unit value:
- 6 units
If you are an undergraduate student and have been offered a Commonwealth supported place, your fees are set by the Australian Government for each course. At ANU 1 EFTSL is 48 units (normally 8 x 6-unit courses). You can find your student contribution amount for each course at Fees. Where there is a unit range displayed for this course, not all unit options below may be available.
| Units | EFTSL |
|---|---|
| 6.00 | 0.12500 |
Course fees
- Domestic fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2018 | $3660 |
- International fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2018 | $5160 |
Offerings, Dates and Class Summary Links
ANU utilises MyTimetable to enable students to view the timetable for their enrolled courses, browse, then self-allocate to small teaching activities / tutorials so they can better plan their time. Find out more on the Timetable webpage.
Class summaries, if available, can be accessed by clicking on the View link for the relevant class number.
Second Semester
| Class number | Class start date | Last day to enrol | Census date | Class end date | Mode Of Delivery | Class Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8179 | 23 Jul 2018 | 30 Jul 2018 | 31 Aug 2018 | 26 Oct 2018 | In Person | N/A |
