Learning objectives
By the end of the course the student should know the basic of statistical methods used in biological research from an applied perspective. In particular the student should be able to: summarize statistical data using distributions, graphs and summary statistics (mean values and variablity measures), meausure the strength of the association between two characters, use elementary probability theory, solve simple inferential problem, recognize the basic study design and basic epidemiological indicator.
Prerequisites
none
Course unit content
Statistical units and variables
Quantitative and qualitative data
Statistical distributions
Mean values (mode, median, quantiles, arithmetic mean)
Variability measures (range, interquartile range, deviance, variance, standard deviation, coefficient of variability, entropy and Gini's coefficients)
Graphical representations of data
Relationship between two characters
Measure of independence
Simple linear regression and correlation;
Elementary probability theory
Basic concepts of statistical inference
Observational and experimental study
Measure of occurrence of disease
Relative Risks and Odds Ratio
Evaluation of a diagnostic test
Full programme
- - -
Bibliography
Principles of Biostatistics Marcello Pagano, Kimberlee Gauvreau, Chapman & Hall CRC
or
Biostatistics: Basic Concepts and Methodology for the Health Sciences,
Wayne W. Daniel, Wiley, 2019, 11th edition
Teaching methods
Lectures, computer session.
Assessment methods and criteria
The exam aims at testing the student's achievement of the following learning outcomes:
• deep knowledge of the statistical methods described and discussed during the lectures
• ability to use these methods in the analysis of biometrical data
ability to use the obtained results for the quantitative interpretation of an epidemiological or biological study.
Final examination will be written. The written
examination will contain open theoretical questions on the main course topics and excercises.
Other information
Lessons frequency is not mandatory, although
strongly encouraged.
