Statistics

Course Details

Course Number: SOWK 3313  Section Number: 210

Spring 2011

Location: Martin Hall

Classroom Number: 106

Days & Times:

Monday, Wednesday, & Friday

12:00 noon - 12:00 50 pm

Course Attachments

Textbooks
MSU Faculty Member
Dr. Francis J. Powell   
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Course Objectives

 

Course Objectives:

            By the end of the course, the student will be able to:

  1. Explain, calculate and interpret descriptive statistics including: basic terminology, scales, notation, frequency distributions, measures of central tendency, measure of dispersion, and the normal distribution.
  2. Read and analyze basic charts and graphs, contingency tables, and computer results;
  3. Explain, calculate, and interpret inferential statistics including probability, and hypothesis tests.
  4. Identify and apply correct statistical technique to the research question;
  5. Understand that statistics are value neutral, but can be used to support discriminatory and prejudicial value positions contrary to the values of social work, especially against special populations (e.g. women, people of color, people with disabilities, gays and lesbians).
  6. Use computer technology to compute descriptive and inferential statistics. 

Course Expectations

 

            There will be three (3) in-class examinations worth 100 points each.  The exams will consist of essays, multiple choice, calculations, and true/false questions.  The content of the examinations will derive from class reading assignment and lectures.  Students will have the entire class time to complete the examinations.  Students arriving late will not receive additional time to complete the examinations.  It is recommended that you study in groups.


Grading Standards

In-Class Examinations (3)                                           300 pts.


Submission Format Policy

N/A



Note: You may not submit a paper for a grade in this class that already has been (or will be) submitted for a grade in another course, unless you obtain the explicit written permission of me and the other instructor involved in advance.

Late Paper Policy

There are no paper assignments for this course.


Plagiarism Policy Plagiarism is the use of someone else's thoughts, words, ideas, or lines of argument in your own work without appropriate documentation (a parenthetical citation at the end and a listing in "Works Cited")-whether you use that material in a quote, paraphrase, or summary. It is a theft of intellectual property and will not be tolerated, whether intentional or not.

Student Honor Creed

As an MSU Student, I pledge not to lie, cheat, steal, or help anyone else do so."

As students at MSU, we recognize that any great society must be composed of empowered, responsible citizens. We also recognize universities play an important role in helping mold these responsible citizens. We believe students themselves play an important part in developing responsible citizenship by maintaining a community where integrity and honorable character are the norm, not the exception. Thus, We, the Students of Midwestern State University, resolve to uphold the honor of the University by affirming our commitment to complete academic honesty. We resolve not only to be honest but also to hold our peers accountable for complete honesty in all university matters. We consider it dishonest to ask for, give, or receive help in examinations or quizzes, to use any unauthorized material in examinations, or to present, as one's own, work or ideas which are not entirely one's own. We recognize that any instructor has the right to expect that all student work is honest, original work. We accept and acknowledge that responsibility for lying, cheating, stealing, plagiarism, and other forms of academic dishonesty fundamentally rests within each individual student. We expect of ourselves academic integrity, personal professionalism, and ethical character. We appreciate steps taken by University officials to protect the honor of the University against any who would disgrace the MSU student body by violating the spirit of this creed. Written and adopted by the 2002-2003 MSU Student Senate.

Students with Disabilities The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal anti-discrimination statute that provides comprehensive civil rights protection for persons with disabilities. Among other things, this legislation requires that all students with disabilities be guaranteed a learning environment that provides for reasonable accommodation of their disabilities. If you believe you have a disability requiring an accommodation, please contact the Disability Support Services in Room 168 of the Clark Student Center, 397-4140.

Safe Zones Statement The professor considers this classroom to be a place where you will be treated with respect as a human being - regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, religious affiliation, sexual orientation, political beliefs, age, or ability. Additionally, diversity of thought is appreciated and encouraged, provided you can agree to disagree. It is the professor's expectation that ALL students consider the classroom a safe environment.

Contacting your Instructor All instructors in the Department have voicemail in their offices and MWSU e-mail addresses. Make sure you add your instructor's phone number and e-mail address to both email and cell phone lists of contacts.

Attendance Requirements

 

Attendance is Mandatory! and logged.  You are permitted to miss two (2) classes.  After missing two classes, five (5) points for each class will be deducted from your total points for the course.

            Students must participate in classroom discussions, in-class exercises, and other specified activities.  Passive participation does not carry the full weight of constructive participation.  It is not simply the quantity of participation but the quality of the participation that counts.  Lateness will detract from meeting this requirement.


Other Policies

 

**It is the policy of MSU to accommodate students with disabilities, pursuant to federal law, state law, and the University's commitment to equal educational opportunities.  Any student with a disability who needs accommodation, for example in seating placement of arrangements for examinations, should inform the instructor at the beginning of the course.


Writing Proficiency Requirement All students seeking a Bachelor's degree from Midwestern State University must satisfy a writing proficiency requirement once they've 1) passed English 1113 and English 1123 and 2) earned 60 hours. You may meet this requirement by passing either the Writing Proficiency Exam or English 2113. Please keep in mind that, once you've earned over 90 hours, you lose the opportunity to take the $25 exam and have no option but to enroll in the three-credit hour course. If you have any questions about the exam, visit the Writing Proficiency Office website at http://academics.mwsu.edu/wpr, or call 397-4131.