Module: BIO4106-20 Analysing Nature

Level: 4

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Dr Ralph Thompson

Module Tutor Contact Details: r.thompson@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module aims to introduce students to methods of generating and systematically analysing data relating to the natural world, and critically understanding data presented in research. An understanding of the principles of statistics will be developed and some useful statistical tests demonstrated. Students should acquire skills that will developed further at level 5 in preparation for independent research in the dissertation, and that will be key transferable skills for use in future employment or further study.

2.Outline syllabus

The module will include topics such as:

• Empiricism and scientific method

• Levels of knowing: Hypothesis, theory, evidence and confidence

• Populations and samples

• Observational Methods

• Experimental design

• Research ethics

• Growth functions

• SIR epidemic model

• Types of data

• Data visualisation and exploration

• Principles of statistics

• Understanding assumptions (e.g. parametric vs. non-parametric)

• Using Excel

• Introduction to R

• Choosing the right statistics

• Rules of thumb/power analyses

• Recreating published studies (cribbing)

• Infographics

3.Teaching and learning activities

Teaching will provided through lectures, seminars, workshops and directed self-study/practice.

The main teaching will be delivered through lectures which are followed up with practical sessions where the students put the theory into practice on data sets. This will be written up in a practical workbook which will form part of the assessment.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Practical workbook

• % Weighting: 50%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Exam

• Description: Class test

• % Weighting: 50%