Programme/Approved Electives for 2021/22
None
Available as a Free Standing Elective
No
Successful study at level 4 and level 5 of either Physics (Combined Honours), Astrophysics (Combined Honours), Physics (Single Honours) or Physics with Astrophysics (Single Honours)
This module aims to provide hands-on experience of using some commonly used statistical techniques for analysing scientific data. As well as presenting the theory behind the techniques, the module will develop the skills required to apply these statistical techniques to real physics or astrophysics data sets. Some expertise will be gained in order to judge which technique is applicable in a given situation and whether the results are meaningful.
Aims
To acquire a systematic understanding of statistical analysis methods and apply these techniques to critically evaluatephysical/astrophysical data sets from primary sources.
Talis Aspire Reading ListAny reading lists will be provided by the start of the course.http://lists.lib.keele.ac.uk/modules/phy-30027/lists
Intended Learning Outcomes
The student will have systematic understanding of statistical techniques used to analyze and interpretphysical/astrophysical data.: 1The student will have conceptual understanding that enables the student to solve data analysis problems and to interpretscientific data, using statistical ideas and modern analysis techniques.: 1,2The student will be able to critically evaluate data from primary sources to make and communicate judgements byapplying established numerical analysis techniques to physical/astrophysical data.: 2
9 hours lectures (scheduled)18 hours practical classes (scheduled)8 hours problem sheets6 hours project work (scheduled)20 hours project report writing92 hours private study and preparation for examination2 class test
Description of Module Assessment
1: Problem Sheets weighted 20%2 problem sheetsQuestions on systematic understanding of statistical and data analysis methods and their application to physical/astrophysical problems (2 problem sheets)
2: Project weighted 40%2000 word project reportApplication of statistical and numerical methods to a data analysis or interpretation problem informed by developments at the forefront of physics/astrophysics. The methods used and an interpretation of the results to be submitted as a written report (2000 words).
3: Class Test weighted 40%2 hour unseen open book practical test (not scheduled on Exam Timetable)Two hour unseen "open book" practical computer-based test. The test will comprise between 3 and 5 compulsory short questions. The questions will test whether students can correctly identify and apply correct statistical techniques to analyze and critically evaluate the significance of results from experimental data.