Semester.ly

Johns Hopkins University | EN.550.430

Introduction to Statistics

4.0

credits

Average Course Rating

(3.8)

Introduction to the basic principles of statistical reasoning and data analysis. Emphasis on techniques of application. Classical parametric estimation, hypothesis testing, and multiple decision problems; linear models, analysis of variance, and regression; nonparametric and robust procedures; decision-theoretic setting, Bayesian methods.

Spring 2013

(3.83)

Spring 2014

(4.13)

Spring 2015

(3.44)

Spring 2013

Professor: Daniel Naiman

(3.83)

The best aspect of this course was the thorough explanation of the concepts. The notes were almost always immediately available online, the lectures were interesting, and the final was optional. Students felt that the amount of homework assigned was excessive. Also, students felt the course was far too theoretical in nature and that more practical applications should have been the primary focus for an “intro to stats” course. Suggestions included incorporating a TA section and teaching R in the class along with assigning programming projects. Prospective students should know a prior knowledge of coding in MATLAB and R is helpful.

Spring 2014

Professor: Daniel Naiman

(4.13)

The highest rated aspects of this course were the knowledgeable and approachable instructor, the resources to aid student success, and the interesting material. Additionally, students were pleased with the knowledge and patience of the TAs. The worst aspects of the course were the clicker quizzes at the start of every class, the lengthy and time consuming homework, and the inconsistent feedback. Suggestions for improving the course included reducing the number of quizzes, giving more review sessions, and exams more in line with the lectures. Prospective students should know that the course material is challenging and homework will take several hours per week. Having prior knowledge of R is helpful. 15

Spring 2015

Professor: Elie Younces

(3.44)

The best aspects of the course were the interesting course material and helpful TA’s. Students felt that the professor’s teaching style was difficult to follow and that lectures were disorganized. Exams and homework were difficult for many students and assignments were time consuming. Suggestions for improvement included having more straightforward exams, a more clearly organized syllabus, practice exams, and less emphasis on theory in favor of more application and practice problems. Prospective students should have a firm background in calculus and probability. Prospective students wil find the textbook very helpful and should allocate time to study and collaborate with classmates outside of class.