Quantitative Literacy (QL)

Math 1045 - Introduction to Statistics with Integrated Algebra

Course Description

This course is a study of statistics using exploration and data. As this is an introductory course, there is an emphasis on terminology as well as basic concepts. Common sense and intuition will be nearly as useful as experience and background. Statistics used to describe (descriptive), statistics used to predict (inferential), and simulations are three major themes in this course. MATH 1045 contains all of the statistics material from MATH 1040, but also contains additional instruction in arithmetic and algebra useful to statistics.

Signature Assignment

Reflection

Math 1045 has arguably been one of the most strenuous and rewarding classes thus far. Math 1045 is a combined algebra and statistics class emphasizing statistics. In the past, math was a weakness of mine, but not so much anymore.

Before taking this class, I read and discussed many research articles and became acquainted with statistics. I am also working on a project discussing ADHD recognition among various majors. These experiences have given math meaning because they helped me visualize its usefulness. I saw a practical application for many of the subjects we encountered, and thus, it facilitated my learning.

Beforehand, I knew how to use the p-value to measure significance, but now I understand the reasons and methods for calculating it. Additionally, I knew what a hypothesis was, but I needed to learn the proper format for a hypothesis test. I could detail all of the uses for my new knowledge, and I have. I have demonstrated all of my skills in my signature assignment.

My signature assignment displays the knowledge and skills I have developed during this class. The method to gather data was to have each class member buy an equally sized bag of Skittles. We counted the number of Skittles in each color and then totaled them. We then applied our mathematic abilities as described in each section.

I will use the skills I developed the following semester (Spring 2024). I am working on research to present at conferences, and I am not yet prepared to gather data. At the beginning of Spring 2024, I plan to collect data and apply the practical knowledge gained in this class to develop a hypothesis, organize data, interpret the results, and more. Once completed, I will include it in the High Impact Practice (HIP) section of my eportfolio. Please feel free to review my research!

Earlier, I mentioned that this class was both strenuous and oddly rewarding. The entire class found it strenuous; we all shared a sense of camaraderie in the amount of learning we had to do in such a short period (we often received over ten assignments in one week). When I finally understood a topic, it felt fantastic. I have never wrestled so much with a topic that I did a little dance when I finally overcame it. Now that the end of the semester is upon me, I feel a sense of accomplishment. I put lots of time and energy into this class and am proud to walk away with an A.