Cheung: 08-08

P6104 Course description

This is an enriched core course for biostatistics majors and other quantitatively-oriented graduate students. The learning objective is to introduce some fundamental concepts, techniques, and applications of biostatistical methods. In particular, the class will study descriptive statistics, probability & standard probability distributions, general concepts of estimation & hypothesis testing, statistical procedures for the normal and binomial distributions. Selected topics on study design will also be discussed if time permits (see a partial list below). This course is intended to cover the topics of P6103 at greater depth. Students should have solid algebra background. A passing score on the biostatistics placement test is required for those without P6103.

Course Outline:

1. General concepts: Types of variables; descriptive statistics; probability & standard probability distributions; estimation; hypothesis testing. (Chapters 1-7)
2. Biostatistical methods for numerical variables: Sample mean; One-sample t-test; Paired t-test; Two-sample t-test; Nonparametrics tests; Sample size determination. (Chapters 6-9)
3. Biostatistical methods for categorical variables: Estimation of binomial proportion; One-sample test for binomial proportion; Comparison of two binomial proportions; McNemar's test; Case-control studies; Mantel-Haenszel test. (Chapters 6, 10, 13).
4. Biostatistical methods for mulitple variables (if time): Linear regression & correlation; ANOVA. (Chapters 11-13)
5. Special topics on study design: Randomized clinical trials; Case-control studies; Equivalence studies; Cross-over design. (Chapters 6, 13)