MATH 1201: College Algebra
Syllabus
Prerequisites: None.
Course Description: This course provides a solid grounding in algebra, trigonometry, and analytic geometry in preparation for further mathematical studies. The course includes an extensive study of linear, quadratic, and rational functions. It also contains an introduction to exponential and logarithmic functions and circles. Finally, the topic of systems of linear equations is covered.
Required Textbook and Materials: UoPeople courses use open educational resources (OER) and other materials specifically donated to the University with free permissions for educational use. Therefore, students are not required to purchase any textbooks or sign up for any websites that have a cost associated with them. The main required textbooks for this course are listed below and can be readily accessed using the provided links. There may be additional required/recommended readings, supplemental materials, or other resources and websites necessary for lessons; these will be provided for you in the course's General Information and Forums area, and throughout the term via the weekly course Unit areas and the Learning Guides.
- Stitz, C. & Zeager, J. (2011). Precalculus. Lakeland/Lorain, OH: Lakeland & Lorain Community Colleges. Available online at http://www.stitz-zeager.com/sprecalc07152011.pdf or for download here.
- Students should also have access to a calculator or calculation software available online.
Software Requirements/Installation: No special requirements.
Learning Objectives and Outcomes:
By the end of this course students will be able to:
- Learn actively by:
- Integrating technology into problem-solving.
- Taking responsibility for accessing and using a variety of sources for assistance in learning about algebra and trigonometry.
- Think critically and creatively by:
- Using deductive and inductive reasoning in applying calculus to real-life situations.
- Analyzing, contrasting and critiquing various procedures – the “rules” of algebra and trigonometry.
- Following, evaluating, and writing solutions to mathematical problems, arguments, and proofs.
- Communicate clearly and originally by:
- Explaining how answers were created -- stating assumptions made and conclusions supported by the analysis.
- Formulating and criticizing mathematical conjectures and conclusions.
- Reading and writing mathematical presentations that use mathematical vocabulary, notation, and graphical interpretations.
- Interact in the diverse and complex environment by:
- Recognizing the biases and limitations of mathematical models.
- Respecting individual ways of arriving at answers, expressing results, and processing information.
Course Schedule and Topics: This course will cover the following topics in eight learning sessions, with one Unit per week. The Final Exam will take place during Week/Unit 9 (UoPeople time).
Week 1: Unit 1 - Functions
Week 2: Unit 2 - Graphs, Linear and Quadratic Functions
Week 3: Unit 3 - Polynomials
Week 4: Unit 4 - Composition and Inverses
Week 5: Unit 5 - Exponential and Logarithmic Functions
Week 6: Unit 6 -Systems of Equations
Week 7: Unit 7 -Foundations of Trigonometry
Week 8: Unit 8 -Additional Trigonometric Concepts
Week 9: Unit 9 -Course Review and Final Exam
Week 3: Unit 3 - Polynomials
Week 4: Unit 4 - Composition and Inverses
Week 5: Unit 5 - Exponential and Logarithmic Functions
Week 6: Unit 6 -Systems of Equations
Week 7: Unit 7 -Foundations of Trigonometry
Week 8: Unit 8 -Additional Trigonometric Concepts
Week 9: Unit 9 -Course Review and Final Exam
Learning Guide: The following is an outline of how this course will be conducted, with suggested best practices for students.
Unit 1: Functions
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Memorize the graphs of all basic functions (first degree polynomial, second degree polynomial, exponential and logarithmic functions, and all six basic trigonometric functions)
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete and submit the Written Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
Unit 2: Graphs, Linear and Quadratic Functions
- Peer assess Unit 1 Written Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete and submit the Written Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
Unit 3: Polynomials
- Peer assess Unit 2 Written Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Memorize the derivatives of basic functions (polynomials and the basic trigonometric functions)
- Complete and submit the Written Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
- Take the Graded Quiz
Unit 4: Composition and Inverses
- Peer assess Unit 3 Written Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete and submit the Written Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
Unit 5: Exponential and Logarithmic Functions
- Peer assess Unit 4 Written Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Memorize the derivatives of inverse trigonometric functions, and the derivatives of the natural exponential and logarithmic functions
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete and submit the Written Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
Unit 6: Systems of Equations
- Peer assess Unit 5 Written Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Complete and submit the Written Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
- Take the Graded Quiz
Unit 7: Foundations of Trigonometry
- Peer assess Unit 6 Written Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete and submit the Written Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
Unit 8: Additional Trigonometric Concepts
- Peer assess Unit 7 Written Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
- Read the Unit 9 Learning Guide carefully for instructions on the Final Exam
- Take the Review Quiz
- Complete and submit the anonymous Course Evaluation
Unit 9: Course Review and Final Exam
- Read the Learning Guide and take the Review Quiz, if you haven't already done so
- Prepare for, take, and submit the Final Exam
- The Final Exam will take place during the Thursday and Sunday of Week/Unit 9 (UoPeople time); exact dates, times, and other details will be provided accordingly by your instructor
Course Requirements:
Written Assignments & Assessment FormsSome units in this course require that you complete a Written Assignment. You are required to submit your assignments by the indicated deadlines and, in addition, to peer assess three (3) of your classmates’ assignments according to the instructions found in the Assessment Form, which is provided to you during the following week. During this peer assessment period, you are expected to provide details in the feedback section of the Assessment Form, indicating why you awarded the grade that you did to your peer. Failure to submit Written Assignments and/or Assessment Forms may result in failure of the course.
Discussion Assignments & Response Posts/Ratings
Some units in this course require that you complete a Discussion Assignment. You are required to develop and post a substantive response to the Discussion Assignment in the Discussion Forum. A substantive response is one that fully answers the question that has been posed by the instructor. In addition, you must extend the discussion by responding to at least three (3) of your peers’ postings in the Discussion Forum and by rating their posts. Instructions for proper posting and rating are provided inside the Discussion Forum for each week. Discussion Forums are only active for each current and relevant learning week, so it is not possible to contribute to the forum once the learning week has come to an end. Failure to participate in the Discussion Assignment by posting in the Discussion Forum and responding to peers as required may result in failure of the course.
Some units in this course require that you complete a Discussion Assignment. You are required to develop and post a substantive response to the Discussion Assignment in the Discussion Forum. A substantive response is one that fully answers the question that has been posed by the instructor. In addition, you must extend the discussion by responding to at least three (3) of your peers’ postings in the Discussion Forum and by rating their posts. Instructions for proper posting and rating are provided inside the Discussion Forum for each week. Discussion Forums are only active for each current and relevant learning week, so it is not possible to contribute to the forum once the learning week has come to an end. Failure to participate in the Discussion Assignment by posting in the Discussion Forum and responding to peers as required may result in failure of the course.
Learning Journals
Your instructor may choose to assign specific topics and/or relevant questions as a weekly Learning Journal entry for you to complete, but you are still encouraged to also use it to document your activities, record questions/problems you may have encountered, reflect on the learning process, and draft answers for other course assignments. The Learning Journal must be updated on a weekly basis because its entries will be assessed by your instructor directly as a part of your final grade. The Learning Journal will only be seen by your instructor.
Your instructor may choose to assign specific topics and/or relevant questions as a weekly Learning Journal entry for you to complete, but you are still encouraged to also use it to document your activities, record questions/problems you may have encountered, reflect on the learning process, and draft answers for other course assignments. The Learning Journal must be updated on a weekly basis because its entries will be assessed by your instructor directly as a part of your final grade. The Learning Journal will only be seen by your instructor.
Quizzes
This course will contain three types of quizzes – the Self-Quiz, the Graded Quiz, and the Review Quiz. These quizzes may contain multiple choice, true/false, or short answer questions. The results of the Self-Quiz will not count towards your final grade. However, it is highly recommended that you complete the Self-Quiz to ensure that you have adequately understood the course materials. Along with the Reading Assignments, the results of the Self-Quiz should be used as part of an iterative learning process, to thoroughly cover and test your understanding of course material. You should use the results of your Self-Quiz as a guide to go back and review relevant sections of the Reading Assignments. Likewise, the Review Quiz will not count towards your final grade, but should also be used to assist you in a comprehensive review and full understanding of all course material, in preparation for your Final Exam. Lastly, the results of the Graded Quiz will count towards your final grade. Specific instructions on the format and content of the Graded Quiz will be provided by your instructor.
This course will contain three types of quizzes – the Self-Quiz, the Graded Quiz, and the Review Quiz. These quizzes may contain multiple choice, true/false, or short answer questions. The results of the Self-Quiz will not count towards your final grade. However, it is highly recommended that you complete the Self-Quiz to ensure that you have adequately understood the course materials. Along with the Reading Assignments, the results of the Self-Quiz should be used as part of an iterative learning process, to thoroughly cover and test your understanding of course material. You should use the results of your Self-Quiz as a guide to go back and review relevant sections of the Reading Assignments. Likewise, the Review Quiz will not count towards your final grade, but should also be used to assist you in a comprehensive review and full understanding of all course material, in preparation for your Final Exam. Lastly, the results of the Graded Quiz will count towards your final grade. Specific instructions on the format and content of the Graded Quiz will be provided by your instructor.
Final Exam
The Final Exam will take place during the Thursday and Sunday of Week/Unit 9, following the completion of eight units of work. The format of the Final Exam is similar to that of the quizzes and may contain a combination of different question types. You will have one attempt to take the exam, and it will be graded electronically. Specific instructions on how to prepare for and take the Final Exam will be provided during Week 8 (located inside the Unit 9 Learning Guide). Final Exams must be taken without the use of course learning materials (both those inside and outside the course). If particular materials are allowed for use during the exam, these will be noted in the exam’s instructions.
You are allowed to use a pen and blank paper during the final exam for doing calculations. You are also allowed to use a basic calculator for the final exam. You are not allowed to use calculators on the cell phone, iPad or similar devices. Additionally, you cannot use any graphing calculator models with these features or capabilities: QWERTY (typewriter-like) keypad as part of hardware or software (e.g., TI-92 Plus, Voyage 200); pen-input, stylus or touch-screen (e.g., PalmPilot, personal digital assistant, Casio ClassPad); wireless or Bluetooth capabilities; paper tapes; talk or make noise; require an electrical outlet; have cell phone, audio, or video recording capability; can access the Internet; or camera or scanning capability.
Course Forum
The Course Forum is the place to raise issues and questions relating to the course. It is regularly monitored by the instructors and is a good place to meet fellow students taking the same course. While it is not required to participate in the Course Forum, it is highly recommended.
Course Policies:
Grading Components and WeightsEach graded component of the course will contribute some percentage to the final grading scale, as indicated here:
| Discussion Assignments | 20% |
| Written Assignments | 25% |
| Learning Journals | 10% |
| Two Graded Quizzes | 20% (2 @10% each) |
| Final Exam | 25% |
| TOTAL | 100% |
Grading ScaleThis course will follow the standard 100-point grading scale defined by the University of the People, as indicated here:
| Letter Grade | Grade Scale | Grade Points |
| A+ | 98-100 | 4.00 |
| A | 93-97 | 4.00 |
| A- | 90-92 | 3.67 |
| B+ | 88-89 | 3.33 |
| B | 83-87 | 3.00 |
| B- | 80-82 | 2.67 |
| C+ | 78-79 | 2.33 |
| C | 73-77 | 2.00 |
| C- | 70-72 | 1.67 |
| D+ | 68-69 | 1.33 |
| D | 63-67 | 1.00 |
| D- | 60-62 | 0.67 |
| F | Under 60 | 0.00 |
Grade Appeal
If you believe that the final grade you received for a course is erroneous, unjust, or unfair, please contact your course instructor. This must be done within seven days of the posted final grade. For more information on this topic, please review the Grade Appeal Procedure in the University Catalog.
If you believe that the final grade you received for a course is erroneous, unjust, or unfair, please contact your course instructor. This must be done within seven days of the posted final grade. For more information on this topic, please review the Grade Appeal Procedure in the University Catalog.
ParticipationNon-participation is characterized by lack of any assignment submissions, inadequate contributions to the Discussion Forums, and/or lack of peer feedback to Discussion/Written Assignments. Also, please note the following important points about course participation:
- Assignments must be submitted on or before the specified deadline. A course timeline is provided in the course schedule, and the instructor will specify deadlines for each assignment.
- Any student showing non-participation for two weeks (consecutive or non-consecutive) is likely to automatically fail the course.
- Occasionally there may be a legitimate reason for submitting an assignment late. Most of the time, late assignments will not be accepted and there will be no make-up assignments.
- All students are obligated to inform their instructor in advance of any known absences which may result in their non-participation.
Academic Honesty and Integrity
When you submit any work that requires research and writing, it is essential to cite and reference all source material. Failure to properly acknowledge your sources is known as “plagiarism” – which is effectively passing off an individual’s words or ideas as your own. University of the People adheres to a strict policy of academic honesty and integrity. Failure to comply with these guidelines may result in sanctions by the University, including dismissal from the University or course failure. For more information on this topic, please review the Academic Integrity Policy in the University Catalog.
When you submit any work that requires research and writing, it is essential to cite and reference all source material. Failure to properly acknowledge your sources is known as “plagiarism” – which is effectively passing off an individual’s words or ideas as your own. University of the People adheres to a strict policy of academic honesty and integrity. Failure to comply with these guidelines may result in sanctions by the University, including dismissal from the University or course failure. For more information on this topic, please review the Academic Integrity Policy in the University Catalog.
Unless otherwise stated, any materials cited in this course should be referenced using the style guidelines established by the American Psychological Association (APA). The APA format is widely used in colleges and universities across the world and is one of several style and citation formats required for publication in professional and academic journals. Purdue University’s Online Writing Lab (OWL) is a free website that provides excellent information and resources for understanding and using the APA format and style. The OWL website can be accessed here: https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/purdue_owl.html
Code of Conduct
University of the People expects that students conduct themselves in a respectful, collaborative, and honest manner at all times. Harassment, threatening behavior, or deliberate embarrassment of others will not be permitted. Any conduct that interferes with the quality of the educational experience is not allowed and may result in disciplinary action, such as course failure, probation, suspension, or dismissal. For more information on this topic, please review the Code of Conduct Policy in the University Catalog.
University of the People expects that students conduct themselves in a respectful, collaborative, and honest manner at all times. Harassment, threatening behavior, or deliberate embarrassment of others will not be permitted. Any conduct that interferes with the quality of the educational experience is not allowed and may result in disciplinary action, such as course failure, probation, suspension, or dismissal. For more information on this topic, please review the Code of Conduct Policy in the University Catalog.
MATH 1211: Calculus
Syllabus
Prerequisites: MATH 1201: College Algebra with Trigonometry
Course Description: This 3-credit course provides an interdisciplinary introduction to the core concepts of differential calculus, covering a wide range of topics. Content includes both applications and theory of differential calculus leading to an introduction of The Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. Learners will continue to refine independent study skills, problem-solving, logically correct and mathematically precise writing and thinking, and their ability to use geometric, symbolic and analytic formats in presenting solutions to both abstract and real-world applications. Class activities will include lecture/discussion as well as tests and quizzes. Students will communicate their results in written form.
Required Textbook and Materials: UoPeople courses use open educational resources (OER) and other materials specifically donated to the University with free permissions for educational use. Therefore, students are not required to purchase any textbooks or sign up for any websites that have a cost associated with them. The main required textbooks for this course are listed below and can be readily accessed using the provided links. There may be additional required/recommended readings, supplemental materials, or other resources and websites necessary for lessons; these will be provided for you in the course's General Information and Forums area, and throughout the term via the weekly course Unit areas and the Learning Guides.
- Strang, G. (1991). Calculus. Wellesley, MA: Wellesley-Cambridge Press. Available online at http://ocw.mit.edu/resources/res-18-001-calculus-online-textbook-spring-2005/textbook/ or for download here.
- Students should also have access to a calculator or calculation software available online.
Software Requirements/Installation: No special requirements.
Learning Objectives and Outcomes:
By the end of this course students will be able to:
- Learn actively by:
- Integrating technology into problem-solving.
- Taking responsibility for accessing and using a variety of sources for assistance in learning about calculus, including its history.
- Think critically and creatively by:
- Using deductive and inductive reasoning in applying calculus to real-life situations.
- Analyzing, contrasting and critiquing various procedures – the “rules” of calculus.
- Following, evaluating, and writing solutions to mathematical problems, arguments, and proofs.
- Communicate clearly and originally by:
- Explaining how answers were created -- stating assumptions made and conclusions supported by the analysis.
- Formulating and criticizing mathematical conjectures and conclusions.
- Reading and writing mathematical presentations that use mathematical vocabulary, notation, and graphical interpretations.
- Interact in the diverse and complex environment by:
- Recognizing the biases and limitations of mathematical models.
- Respecting individual ways of arriving at answers, expressing results, and processing information.
Course Schedule and Topics: This course will cover the following topics in eight learning sessions, with one Unit per week. The Final Exam will take place during Week/Unit 9 (UoPeople time).
Week 1: Unit 1 - Calculus Introduction: Velocity, Circular Motion, Trigonometric Functions
Week 2: Unit 2 - Limits and Derivatives: Rates of Change and Limits and the Derivative of a Function
Week 3: Unit 3 - Derivative Rules, Derivatives of Trigonometric Functions, and Limits and Continuity
Week 4: Unit 4 - Applications of Derivatives, Extreme Values of Functions, and the Mean Value Theorem
Week 5: Unit 5 - The Chain Rule and Implicit Differentiation
Week 6: Unit 6 -Exponential and Logarithmic Functions
Week 7: Unit 7 -Newton’s Method and the Integral and Antiderivative
Week 8: Unit 8 -More on the Integral, Definite Integrals, and Fundamental Theorem of Calculus
Week 9: Unit 9 -Course Review and Final Exam
Week 4: Unit 4 - Applications of Derivatives, Extreme Values of Functions, and the Mean Value Theorem
Week 5: Unit 5 - The Chain Rule and Implicit Differentiation
Week 6: Unit 6 -Exponential and Logarithmic Functions
Week 7: Unit 7 -Newton’s Method and the Integral and Antiderivative
Week 8: Unit 8 -More on the Integral, Definite Integrals, and Fundamental Theorem of Calculus
Week 9: Unit 9 -Course Review and Final Exam
Learning Guide: The following is an outline of how this course will be conducted, with suggested best practices for students.
Unit 1: Calculus Introduction: Velocity, Circular Motion, Trigonometric Functions
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Memorize the graphs of all basic functions (first degree polynomial, second degree polynomial, exponential and logarithmic functions, and all six basic trigonometric functions)
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete and submit the Written Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
Unit 2: Limits and Derivatives: Rates of Change and Limits and the Derivative of a Function
- Peer assess Unit 1 Written Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete and submit the Written Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
Unit 3: Derivative Rules, Derivatives of Trigonometric Functions, and Limits and Continuity
- Peer assess Unit 2 Written Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Memorize the derivatives of basic functions (polynomials and the basic trigonometric functions)
- Complete and submit the Written Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
- Take the Graded Quiz
Unit 4: Applications of Derivatives, Extreme Values of Functions, and the Mean Value Theorem
- Peer assess Unit 3 Written Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete and submit the Written Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
Unit 5: The Chain Rule and Implicit Differentiation
- Peer assess Unit 4 Written Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Memorize the derivatives of inverse trigonometric functions, and the derivatives of the natural exponential and logarithmic functions
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete and submit the Written Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
Unit 6: Exponential and Logarithmic Functions
- Peer assess Unit 5 Written Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete and submit the Written Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
- Take the Graded Quiz
Unit 7: Newton’s Method and the Integral and Antiderivative
- Peer assess Unit 6 Written Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete and submit the Written Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
Unit 8: More on the Integral, Definite Integrals, and Fundamental Theorem of Calculus
- Peer assess Unit 7 Written Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
- Read the Unit 9 Learning Guide carefully for instructions on the Final Exam
- Take the Review Quiz
- Complete and submit the anonymous Course Evaluation
Unit 9: Course Review and Final Exam
- Read the Learning Guide and take the Review Quiz, if you haven't already done so
- Prepare for, take, and submit the Final Exam
- The Final Exam will take place during the Thursday and Sunday of Week/Unit 9 (UoPeople time); exact dates, times, and other details will be provided accordingly by your instructor
Course Requirements:
Written Assignments & Assessment FormsSome units in this course require that you complete a Written Assignment. You are required to submit your assignments by the indicated deadlines and, in addition, to peer assess three (3) of your classmates’ assignments according to the instructions found in the Assessment Form, which is provided to you during the following week. During this peer assessment period, you are expected to provide details in the feedback section of the Assessment Form, indicating why you awarded the grade that you did to your peer. Failure to submit Written Assignments and/or Assessment Forms may result in failure of the course.
Discussion Assignments & Response Posts/Ratings
Some units in this course require that you complete a Discussion Assignment. You are required to develop and post a substantive response to the Discussion Assignment in the Discussion Forum. A substantive response is one that fully answers the question that has been posed by the instructor. In addition, you must extend the discussion by responding to at least three (3) of your peers’ postings in the Discussion Forum and by rating their posts. Instructions for proper posting and rating are provided inside the Discussion Forum for each week. Discussion Forums are only active for each current and relevant learning week, so it is not possible to contribute to the forum once the learning week has come to an end. Failure to participate in the Discussion Assignment by posting in the Discussion Forum and responding to peers as required may result in failure of the course.
Some units in this course require that you complete a Discussion Assignment. You are required to develop and post a substantive response to the Discussion Assignment in the Discussion Forum. A substantive response is one that fully answers the question that has been posed by the instructor. In addition, you must extend the discussion by responding to at least three (3) of your peers’ postings in the Discussion Forum and by rating their posts. Instructions for proper posting and rating are provided inside the Discussion Forum for each week. Discussion Forums are only active for each current and relevant learning week, so it is not possible to contribute to the forum once the learning week has come to an end. Failure to participate in the Discussion Assignment by posting in the Discussion Forum and responding to peers as required may result in failure of the course.
Learning Journals
Your instructor may choose to assign specific topics and/or relevant questions as a weekly Learning Journal entry for you to complete, but you are still encouraged to also use it to document your activities, record questions/problems you may have encountered, reflect on the learning process, and draft answers for other course assignments. The Learning Journal must be updated on a weekly basis because its entries will be assessed by your instructor directly as a part of your final grade. The Learning Journal will only be seen by your instructor.
Your instructor may choose to assign specific topics and/or relevant questions as a weekly Learning Journal entry for you to complete, but you are still encouraged to also use it to document your activities, record questions/problems you may have encountered, reflect on the learning process, and draft answers for other course assignments. The Learning Journal must be updated on a weekly basis because its entries will be assessed by your instructor directly as a part of your final grade. The Learning Journal will only be seen by your instructor.
Quizzes
This course will contain three types of quizzes – the Self-Quiz, the Graded Quiz, and the Review Quiz. These quizzes may contain multiple choice, true/false, or short answer questions. The results of the Self-Quiz will not count towards your final grade. However, it is highly recommended that you complete the Self-Quiz to ensure that you have adequately understood the course materials. Along with the Reading Assignments, the results of the Self-Quiz should be used as part of an iterative learning process, to thoroughly cover and test your understanding of course material. You should use the results of your Self-Quiz as a guide to go back and review relevant sections of the Reading Assignments. Likewise, the Review Quiz will not count towards your final grade, but should also be used to assist you in a comprehensive review and full understanding of all course material, in preparation for your Final Exam. Lastly, the results of the Graded Quiz will count towards your final grade. Specific instructions on the format and content of the Graded Quiz will be provided by your instructor.
This course will contain three types of quizzes – the Self-Quiz, the Graded Quiz, and the Review Quiz. These quizzes may contain multiple choice, true/false, or short answer questions. The results of the Self-Quiz will not count towards your final grade. However, it is highly recommended that you complete the Self-Quiz to ensure that you have adequately understood the course materials. Along with the Reading Assignments, the results of the Self-Quiz should be used as part of an iterative learning process, to thoroughly cover and test your understanding of course material. You should use the results of your Self-Quiz as a guide to go back and review relevant sections of the Reading Assignments. Likewise, the Review Quiz will not count towards your final grade, but should also be used to assist you in a comprehensive review and full understanding of all course material, in preparation for your Final Exam. Lastly, the results of the Graded Quiz will count towards your final grade. Specific instructions on the format and content of the Graded Quiz will be provided by your instructor.
Final Exam
The Final Exam will take place during the Thursday and Sunday of Week/Unit 9, following the completion of eight units of work. The format of the Final Exam is similar to that of the quizzes and may contain a combination of different question types. You will have one attempt to take the exam, and it will be graded electronically. Specific instructions on how to prepare for and take the Final Exam will be provided during Week 8 (located inside the Unit 9 Learning Guide). Final Exams must be taken without the use of course learning materials (both those inside and outside the course). If particular materials are allowed for use during the exam, these will be noted in the exam’s instructions.
The Final Exam will take place during the Thursday and Sunday of Week/Unit 9, following the completion of eight units of work. The format of the Final Exam is similar to that of the quizzes and may contain a combination of different question types. You will have one attempt to take the exam, and it will be graded electronically. Specific instructions on how to prepare for and take the Final Exam will be provided during Week 8 (located inside the Unit 9 Learning Guide). Final Exams must be taken without the use of course learning materials (both those inside and outside the course). If particular materials are allowed for use during the exam, these will be noted in the exam’s instructions.
Course Forum
The Course Forum is the place to raise issues and questions relating to the course. It is regularly monitored by the instructors and is a good place to meet fellow students taking the same course. While it is not required to participate in the Course Forum, it is highly recommended.
MATH 1211: Calculus
Syllabus
Prerequisites: MATH 1201: College Algebra with Trigonometry
Course Description: This 3-credit course provides an interdisciplinary introduction to the core concepts of differential calculus, covering a wide range of topics. Content includes both applications and theory of differential calculus leading to an introduction of The Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. Learners will continue to refine independent study skills, problem-solving, logically correct and mathematically precise writing and thinking, and their ability to use geometric, symbolic and analytic formats in presenting solutions to both abstract and real-world applications. Class activities will include lecture/discussion as well as tests and quizzes. Students will communicate their results in written form.
Required Textbook and Materials: UoPeople courses use open educational resources (OER) and other materials specifically donated to the University with free permissions for educational use. Therefore, students are not required to purchase any textbooks or sign up for any websites that have a cost associated with them. The main required textbooks for this course are listed below and can be readily accessed using the provided links. There may be additional required/recommended readings, supplemental materials, or other resources and websites necessary for lessons; these will be provided for you in the course's General Information and Forums area, and throughout the term via the weekly course Unit areas and the Learning Guides.
- Strang, G. (1991). Calculus. Wellesley, MA: Wellesley-Cambridge Press. Available online at http://ocw.mit.edu/resources/res-18-001-calculus-online-textbook-spring-2005/textbook/ or for download here.
- Students should also have access to a calculator or calculation software available online.
Software Requirements/Installation: No special requirements.
Learning Objectives and Outcomes:
By the end of this course students will be able to:
- Learn actively by:
- Integrating technology into problem-solving.
- Taking responsibility for accessing and using a variety of sources for assistance in learning about calculus, including its history.
- Think critically and creatively by:
- Using deductive and inductive reasoning in applying calculus to real-life situations.
- Analyzing, contrasting and critiquing various procedures – the “rules” of calculus.
- Following, evaluating, and writing solutions to mathematical problems, arguments, and proofs.
- Communicate clearly and originally by:
- Explaining how answers were created -- stating assumptions made and conclusions supported by the analysis.
- Formulating and criticizing mathematical conjectures and conclusions.
- Reading and writing mathematical presentations that use mathematical vocabulary, notation, and graphical interpretations.
- Interact in the diverse and complex environment by:
- Recognizing the biases and limitations of mathematical models.
- Respecting individual ways of arriving at answers, expressing results, and processing information.
Course Schedule and Topics: This course will cover the following topics in eight learning sessions, with one Unit per week. The Final Exam will take place during Week/Unit 9 (UoPeople time).
Week 1: Unit 1 - Calculus Introduction: Velocity, Circular Motion, Trigonometric Functions
Week 2: Unit 2 - Limits and Derivatives: Rates of Change and Limits and the Derivative of a Function
Week 3: Unit 3 - Derivative Rules, Derivatives of Trigonometric Functions, and Limits and Continuity
Week 4: Unit 4 - Applications of Derivatives, Extreme Values of Functions, and the Mean Value Theorem
Week 5: Unit 5 - The Chain Rule and Implicit Differentiation
Week 6: Unit 6 -Exponential and Logarithmic Functions
Week 7: Unit 7 -Newton’s Method and the Integral and Antiderivative
Week 8: Unit 8 -More on the Integral, Definite Integrals, and Fundamental Theorem of Calculus
Week 9: Unit 9 -Course Review and Final Exam
Week 4: Unit 4 - Applications of Derivatives, Extreme Values of Functions, and the Mean Value Theorem
Week 5: Unit 5 - The Chain Rule and Implicit Differentiation
Week 6: Unit 6 -Exponential and Logarithmic Functions
Week 7: Unit 7 -Newton’s Method and the Integral and Antiderivative
Week 8: Unit 8 -More on the Integral, Definite Integrals, and Fundamental Theorem of Calculus
Week 9: Unit 9 -Course Review and Final Exam
Learning Guide: The following is an outline of how this course will be conducted, with suggested best practices for students.
Unit 1: Calculus Introduction: Velocity, Circular Motion, Trigonometric Functions
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Memorize the graphs of all basic functions (first degree polynomial, second degree polynomial, exponential and logarithmic functions, and all six basic trigonometric functions)
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete and submit the Written Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
Unit 2: Limits and Derivatives: Rates of Change and Limits and the Derivative of a Function
- Peer assess Unit 1 Written Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete and submit the Written Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
Unit 3: Derivative Rules, Derivatives of Trigonometric Functions, and Limits and Continuity
- Peer assess Unit 2 Written Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Memorize the derivatives of basic functions (polynomials and the basic trigonometric functions)
- Complete and submit the Written Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
- Take the Graded Quiz
Unit 4: Applications of Derivatives, Extreme Values of Functions, and the Mean Value Theorem
- Peer assess Unit 3 Written Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete and submit the Written Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
Unit 5: The Chain Rule and Implicit Differentiation
- Peer assess Unit 4 Written Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Memorize the derivatives of inverse trigonometric functions, and the derivatives of the natural exponential and logarithmic functions
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete and submit the Written Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
Unit 6: Exponential and Logarithmic Functions
- Peer assess Unit 5 Written Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete and submit the Written Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
- Take the Graded Quiz
Unit 7: Newton’s Method and the Integral and Antiderivative
- Peer assess Unit 6 Written Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete and submit the Written Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
Unit 8: More on the Integral, Definite Integrals, and Fundamental Theorem of Calculus
- Peer assess Unit 7 Written Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
- Read the Unit 9 Learning Guide carefully for instructions on the Final Exam
- Take the Review Quiz
- Complete and submit the anonymous Course Evaluation
Unit 9: Course Review and Final Exam
- Read the Learning Guide and take the Review Quiz, if you haven't already done so
- Prepare for, take, and submit the Final Exam
- The Final Exam will take place during the Thursday and Sunday of Week/Unit 9 (UoPeople time); exact dates, times, and other details will be provided accordingly by your instructor
Course Requirements:
Written Assignments & Assessment FormsSome units in this course require that you complete a Written Assignment. You are required to submit your assignments by the indicated deadlines and, in addition, to peer assess three (3) of your classmates’ assignments according to the instructions found in the Assessment Form, which is provided to you during the following week. During this peer assessment period, you are expected to provide details in the feedback section of the Assessment Form, indicating why you awarded the grade that you did to your peer. Failure to submit Written Assignments and/or Assessment Forms may result in failure of the course.
Discussion Assignments & Response Posts/Ratings
Some units in this course require that you complete a Discussion Assignment. You are required to develop and post a substantive response to the Discussion Assignment in the Discussion Forum. A substantive response is one that fully answers the question that has been posed by the instructor. In addition, you must extend the discussion by responding to at least three (3) of your peers’ postings in the Discussion Forum and by rating their posts. Instructions for proper posting and rating are provided inside the Discussion Forum for each week. Discussion Forums are only active for each current and relevant learning week, so it is not possible to contribute to the forum once the learning week has come to an end. Failure to participate in the Discussion Assignment by posting in the Discussion Forum and responding to peers as required may result in failure of the course.
Some units in this course require that you complete a Discussion Assignment. You are required to develop and post a substantive response to the Discussion Assignment in the Discussion Forum. A substantive response is one that fully answers the question that has been posed by the instructor. In addition, you must extend the discussion by responding to at least three (3) of your peers’ postings in the Discussion Forum and by rating their posts. Instructions for proper posting and rating are provided inside the Discussion Forum for each week. Discussion Forums are only active for each current and relevant learning week, so it is not possible to contribute to the forum once the learning week has come to an end. Failure to participate in the Discussion Assignment by posting in the Discussion Forum and responding to peers as required may result in failure of the course.
Learning Journals
Your instructor may choose to assign specific topics and/or relevant questions as a weekly Learning Journal entry for you to complete, but you are still encouraged to also use it to document your activities, record questions/problems you may have encountered, reflect on the learning process, and draft answers for other course assignments. The Learning Journal must be updated on a weekly basis because its entries will be assessed by your instructor directly as a part of your final grade. The Learning Journal will only be seen by your instructor.
Your instructor may choose to assign specific topics and/or relevant questions as a weekly Learning Journal entry for you to complete, but you are still encouraged to also use it to document your activities, record questions/problems you may have encountered, reflect on the learning process, and draft answers for other course assignments. The Learning Journal must be updated on a weekly basis because its entries will be assessed by your instructor directly as a part of your final grade. The Learning Journal will only be seen by your instructor.
Quizzes
This course will contain three types of quizzes – the Self-Quiz, the Graded Quiz, and the Review Quiz. These quizzes may contain multiple choice, true/false, or short answer questions. The results of the Self-Quiz will not count towards your final grade. However, it is highly recommended that you complete the Self-Quiz to ensure that you have adequately understood the course materials. Along with the Reading Assignments, the results of the Self-Quiz should be used as part of an iterative learning process, to thoroughly cover and test your understanding of course material. You should use the results of your Self-Quiz as a guide to go back and review relevant sections of the Reading Assignments. Likewise, the Review Quiz will not count towards your final grade, but should also be used to assist you in a comprehensive review and full understanding of all course material, in preparation for your Final Exam. Lastly, the results of the Graded Quiz will count towards your final grade. Specific instructions on the format and content of the Graded Quiz will be provided by your instructor.
This course will contain three types of quizzes – the Self-Quiz, the Graded Quiz, and the Review Quiz. These quizzes may contain multiple choice, true/false, or short answer questions. The results of the Self-Quiz will not count towards your final grade. However, it is highly recommended that you complete the Self-Quiz to ensure that you have adequately understood the course materials. Along with the Reading Assignments, the results of the Self-Quiz should be used as part of an iterative learning process, to thoroughly cover and test your understanding of course material. You should use the results of your Self-Quiz as a guide to go back and review relevant sections of the Reading Assignments. Likewise, the Review Quiz will not count towards your final grade, but should also be used to assist you in a comprehensive review and full understanding of all course material, in preparation for your Final Exam. Lastly, the results of the Graded Quiz will count towards your final grade. Specific instructions on the format and content of the Graded Quiz will be provided by your instructor.
Final Exam
The Final Exam will take place during the Thursday and Sunday of Week/Unit 9, following the completion of eight units of work. The format of the Final Exam is similar to that of the quizzes and may contain a combination of different question types. You will have one attempt to take the exam, and it will be graded electronically. Specific instructions on how to prepare for and take the Final Exam will be provided during Week 8 (located inside the Unit 9 Learning Guide). Final Exams must be taken without the use of course learning materials (both those inside and outside the course). If particular materials are allowed for use during the exam, these will be noted in the exam’s instructions.
The Final Exam will take place during the Thursday and Sunday of Week/Unit 9, following the completion of eight units of work. The format of the Final Exam is similar to that of the quizzes and may contain a combination of different question types. You will have one attempt to take the exam, and it will be graded electronically. Specific instructions on how to prepare for and take the Final Exam will be provided during Week 8 (located inside the Unit 9 Learning Guide). Final Exams must be taken without the use of course learning materials (both those inside and outside the course). If particular materials are allowed for use during the exam, these will be noted in the exam’s instructions.
Course Forum
The Course Forum is the place to raise issues and questions relating to the course. It is regularly monitored by the instructors and is a good place to meet fellow students taking the same course. While it is not required to participate in the Course Forum, it is highly recommended.
MATH 1280: INTRODUCTION TO STATISTICS
Syllabus
Prerequisites: None.
Course Description: This course presents students with basic concepts in statistics and probability, and encourages statistical thinking. This course is intended to bring students to a level where they can carry out simple statistical analysis of simple data. Topics covered include descriptive statistics, probability, discrete and continuous random variables, the sampling distribution and the Central Limit Theorem. The R statistical programming environment is used for computation, graphical presentation, and simulations. The emphasis in the course is on the presentation of statistical methods and on the interpretation of the outcome. The philosophy of statistics, and not its mathematics, is at the center of this course; needed mathematical concepts are demonstrated via simulations rather than by abstract proofs.
Required Textbook and Materials: UoPeople courses use open educational resources (OER) and other materials specifically donated to the University with free permissions for educational use. Therefore, students are not required to purchase any textbooks or sign up for any websites that have a cost associated with them. The main required textbooks for this course are listed below and can be readily accessed using the provided links. There may be additional required/recommended readings, supplemental materials, or other resources and websites necessary for lessons; these will be provided for you in the course's General Information and Forums area, and throughout the term via the weekly course Unit areas and the Learning Guides.
- Yakir, B. (2011). Introduction to Statistical Thinking (With R, Without Calculus). Jerusalem, IL: The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Department of Statistics. Available here.
Software Requirements/Installation: Students are required to download and install the R program on their own computer or on a USB portable storage device. Complete instructions are provided as an integral part of the course content and learning objectives regarding how to download, install and test the application.
Learning Objectives and Outcomes:
By the end of this course students will be able to:
- Examine concepts of probability that are associated with statistics.
- Understand the basic forms of presenting and summarizing data.
- Recognize and interpret different forms of variability.
- Use the basic operation of the R program and carry out computations and produce plots associated with data and probability.
Course Schedule and Topics: This course will cover the following topics in eight learning sessions, with one Unit per week. The Final Exam will take place during Week/Unit 9 (UoPeople time).
Week 1: Unit 1 - Introduction
Week 2: Unit 2 - Sampling and Data Structures
Week 3: Unit 3 - Descriptive Statistics
Week 2: Unit 2 - Sampling and Data Structures
Week 3: Unit 3 - Descriptive Statistics
Week 4: Unit 4 - Probability
Week 5: Unit 5 - Random Variables
Week 6: Unit 6 - The Normal Random Variable
Week 7: Unit 7 - The Sampling Distribution
Week 8: Unit 8 - Overview and Integration
Week 9: Unit 9 - Final Exam
Week 5: Unit 5 - Random Variables
Week 6: Unit 6 - The Normal Random Variable
Week 7: Unit 7 - The Sampling Distribution
Week 8: Unit 8 - Overview and Integration
Week 9: Unit 9 - Final Exam
Learning Guide: The following is an outline of how this course will be conducted, with suggested best practices for students.
Unit 1: Introduction
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
Unit 2: Sampling and Data Structures
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete and submit the Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
Unit 3: Descriptive Statistics
- Peer assess Unit 2 Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete the Supplementary Exercise
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
- Take the Graded Quiz
Unit 4: Probability
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete and submit the Assignment
- Complete the Supplementary Exercise
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
Unit 5: Random Variables
- Peer assess Unit 4 Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
Unit 6: The Normal Random Variable
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete and submit the Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
- Take the Graded Quiz
Unit 7: The Sampling Distribution
- Peer assess Unit 6 Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
Unit 8: Overview and Integration
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete and submit the Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
- Take the Graded Quiz
- Read the Unit 9 Learning Guide carefully for instructions on the Final Exam
- Take the Review Quiz
Unit 9: Course Review and Final Exam
- Read the Learning Guide and take the Review Quiz, if you haven't already done so
- Prepare for, take, and submit the Final Exam
- The Final Exam will take place during the Thursday and Sunday of Week/Unit 9 (UoPeople time); exact dates, times, and other details will be provided accordingly by your instructor
Course Requirements:
Assignments & Assessment FormsSome units in this course require that you complete an Assignment. You are required to submit your assignments by the indicated deadlines and, in addition, to peer assess three (3) of your classmates’ assignments according to the instructions found in the Assessment Form, which is provided to you during the following week. During this peer assessment period, you are expected to provide details in the feedback section of the Assessment Form, indicating why you awarded the grade that you did to your peer. Failure to submit Assignments and/or Assessment Forms may result in failure of the course.
Discussion Assignments & Response Posts/Ratings
Some units in this course require that you complete a Discussion Assignment. You are required to develop and post a substantive response to the Discussion Assignment in the Discussion Forum. A substantive response is one that fully answers the question that has been posed by the instructor. In addition, you must extend the discussion by responding to at least three (3) of your peers’ postings in the Discussion Forum and by rating their posts. Instructions for proper posting and rating are provided inside the Discussion Forum for each week. Discussion Forums are only active for each current and relevant learning week, so it is not possible to contribute to the forum once the learning week has come to an end. Failure to participate in the Discussion Assignment by posting in the Discussion Forum and responding to peers as required may result in failure of the course.
Some units in this course require that you complete a Discussion Assignment. You are required to develop and post a substantive response to the Discussion Assignment in the Discussion Forum. A substantive response is one that fully answers the question that has been posed by the instructor. In addition, you must extend the discussion by responding to at least three (3) of your peers’ postings in the Discussion Forum and by rating their posts. Instructions for proper posting and rating are provided inside the Discussion Forum for each week. Discussion Forums are only active for each current and relevant learning week, so it is not possible to contribute to the forum once the learning week has come to an end. Failure to participate in the Discussion Assignment by posting in the Discussion Forum and responding to peers as required may result in failure of the course.
Learning Journal
Your instructor may choose to assign specific topics and/or relevant questions as a weekly Learning Journal entry for you to complete, but you are still encouraged to also use it to document your activities, record questions/problems you may have encountered, reflect on the learning process, and draft answers for other course assignments. The Learning Journal must be updated on a weekly basis because its entries will be assessed by your instructor directly as a part of your final grade. The Learning Journal will only be seen by your instructor.
Your instructor may choose to assign specific topics and/or relevant questions as a weekly Learning Journal entry for you to complete, but you are still encouraged to also use it to document your activities, record questions/problems you may have encountered, reflect on the learning process, and draft answers for other course assignments. The Learning Journal must be updated on a weekly basis because its entries will be assessed by your instructor directly as a part of your final grade. The Learning Journal will only be seen by your instructor.
Quizzes
This course will contain three types of quizzes – the Self-Quiz, the Graded Quiz, and the Review Quiz. These quizzes may contain multiple choice, true/false, or short answer questions. The results of the Self-Quiz will not count towards your final grade. However, it is highly recommended that you complete the Self-Quiz to ensure that you have adequately understood the course materials. Along with the Reading Assignments, the results of the Self-Quiz should be used as part of an iterative learning process, to thoroughly cover and test your understanding of course material. You should use the results of your Self-Quiz as a guide to go back and review relevant sections of the Reading Assignments. Likewise, the Review Quiz will not count towards your final grade, but should also be used to assist you in a comprehensive review and full understanding of all course material, in preparation for your Final Exam. Lastly, the results of the Graded Quiz will count towards your final grade. Specific instructions on the format and content of the Graded Quiz will be provided by your instructor.
This course will contain three types of quizzes – the Self-Quiz, the Graded Quiz, and the Review Quiz. These quizzes may contain multiple choice, true/false, or short answer questions. The results of the Self-Quiz will not count towards your final grade. However, it is highly recommended that you complete the Self-Quiz to ensure that you have adequately understood the course materials. Along with the Reading Assignments, the results of the Self-Quiz should be used as part of an iterative learning process, to thoroughly cover and test your understanding of course material. You should use the results of your Self-Quiz as a guide to go back and review relevant sections of the Reading Assignments. Likewise, the Review Quiz will not count towards your final grade, but should also be used to assist you in a comprehensive review and full understanding of all course material, in preparation for your Final Exam. Lastly, the results of the Graded Quiz will count towards your final grade. Specific instructions on the format and content of the Graded Quiz will be provided by your instructor.
Final Exam
The Final Exam will take place during the Thursday and Sunday of Week/Unit 9, following the completion of eight units of work. The format of the Final Exam is similar to that of the quizzes and may contain a combination of different question types. You will have one attempt to take the exam, and it will be graded electronically. Specific instructions on how to prepare for and take the Final Exam will be provided during Week 8 (located inside the Unit 9 Learning Guide). Final Exams must be taken without the use of course learning materials (both those inside and outside the course). If particular materials are allowed for use during the exam, these will be noted in the exam’s instructions.
The Final Exam will take place during the Thursday and Sunday of Week/Unit 9, following the completion of eight units of work. The format of the Final Exam is similar to that of the quizzes and may contain a combination of different question types. You will have one attempt to take the exam, and it will be graded electronically. Specific instructions on how to prepare for and take the Final Exam will be provided during Week 8 (located inside the Unit 9 Learning Guide). Final Exams must be taken without the use of course learning materials (both those inside and outside the course). If particular materials are allowed for use during the exam, these will be noted in the exam’s instructions.
The Final Exam for this course must be done under the supervision of a proctor. Since you already secured your proctor before registering for this course, this is a reminder that you should coordinate with him/her before you take the exam. Please note, you will not be permitted to change proctors during the course. As a reminder, students are required to successfully complete proctored exams spaced throughout their program of study at UoPeople, in order to verify the student’s identity in confirming a degree and diploma upon graduation.
The following items are allowed during the Final Exam:
- R Programming Console: Students can access their computer’s R programming console for complex calculations during this exam.
- Open book: Students can read the course textbook and PDF notes for the class, which contain examples of R commands.
- Calculator use: Students are only allowed to use a basic calculator for the final exam. Calculators on the cell phone, iPad or similar devices are not allowed.
Course Forum
The Course Forum is the place to raise issues and questions relating to the course. It is regularly monitored by the instructors and is a good place to meet fellow students taking the same course. While it is not required to participate in the Course Forum, it is highly recommended.
The Course Forum is the place to raise issues and questions relating to the course. It is regularly monitored by the instructors and is a good place to meet fellow students taking the same course. While it is not required to participate in the Course Forum, it is highly recommended.
MATH 1281: STATISTICAL INFERENCE
Syllabus
Prerequisites: MATH 1280 Introduction to Statistics
Course Description: This course covers inferential statistics, estimation, and hypothesis testing. The emphasis in the course is on the presentation of statistical methods and on the interpretation of the outcome. This course considers inferential statistics: point estimation, confidence intervals, and hypothesis testing. The inference is applied to single measurements and is used to investigate the relations between measurements. The R system for data analysis is used as part of the teaching. The philosophy and practice of statistics, and not its mathematics, is at the center; needed mathematical computations are demonstrated via simulations rather than by abstract proofs.
Required Textbook and Materials: UoPeople courses use open educational resources (OER) and other materials specifically donated to the University with free permissions for educational use. Therefore, students are not required to purchase any textbooks or sign up for any websites that have a cost associated with them. The main required textbooks for this course are listed below and can be readily accessed using the provided links. There may be additional required/recommended readings, supplemental materials, or other resources and websites necessary for lessons; these will be provided for you in the course's General Information and Forums area, and throughout the term via the weekly course Unit areas and the Learning Guides.
- Yakir, B. (2011). Introduction to Statistical Thinking (With R, Without Calculus). Jerusalem, IL: The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Department of Statistics. Available here.
Software Requirements/Installation: Students are required to download and install the R program on their own computer or on a USB portable storage device. Complete instructions are provided as an integral part of the course content and learning objectives regarding how to download, install and test the application.
Learning Objectives and Outcomes:
By the end of this course students will be able to:
- Define different methods for statistical inference: point estimation, confidence intervals, and hypothesis testing.
- Recognize and use models for describing relations between measurements.
- Apply and interpret the outcomes of statistical inference.
- Explain the assumptions behind various procedures for inference.
- Use simulations in order to validate probabilistic properties of procedures for inference.
Course Schedule and Topics: This course will cover the following topics in eight learning sessions, with one Unit per week. The Final Exam will take place during Week/Unit 9 (UoPeople time).
Week 1: Unit 1 - Introduction
Week 2: Unit 2 - Point Estimation
Week 3: Unit 3 - Confidence Intervals
Week 4: Unit 4 - Testing Hypothesis
Week 5: Unit 5 - Comparing Two Samples
Week 6: Unit 6 - Linear Regression
Week 7: Unit 7 - R-squared in Linear Regression and Bernoulli Response
Week 8: Unit 8 - Case Studies
Week 9: Unit 9 - Course Overview and Final Exam
Learning Guide: The following is an outline of how this course will be conducted, with suggested best practices for students.
Unit 1: Introduction
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
Unit 2: Point Estimation
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete and submit the Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
Unit 3: Confidence Intervals
- Peer assess Unit 2 Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
- Take the Graded Quiz
Unit 4: Testing Hypothesis
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete and submit the Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
Unit 5: Comparing Two Samples
- Peer assess Unit 4 Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
Unit 6: Linear Regression
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete and submit the Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
- Take the Graded Quiz
Unit 7: R-squared in Linear Regression and Bernoulli Response
- Peer assess Unit 6 Assignment
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
Unit 8: Case Studies
- Read the Learning Guide and Reading Assignments
- Participate in the Discussion Assignment (post, comment, and rate in the Discussion Forum)
- Complete and submit the Assignment
- Make entries to the Learning Journal
- Take the Self-Quiz
- Read the Unit 9 Learning Guide carefully for instructions on the Final Exam
- Take the Review Quiz
Unit 9: Course Review and Final Exam
- Read the Learning Guide and take the Review Quiz, if you haven't already done so
- Prepare for, take, and submit the Final Exam
- The Final Exam will take place during the Thursday and Sunday of Week/Unit 9 (UoPeople time); exact dates, times, and other details will be provided accordingly by your instructor
Course Requirements:
Assignments & Assessment FormsSome units in this course require that you complete a Written Assignment. You are required to submit your assignments by the indicated deadlines and, in addition, to peer assess three (3) of your classmates’ assignments according to the instructions found in the Assessment Form, which is provided to you during the following week. During this peer assessment period, you are expected to provide details in the feedback section of the Assessment Form, indicating why you awarded the grade that you did to your peer. Failure to submit Written Assignments and/or Assessment Forms may result in failure of the course.
Discussion Assignments & Response Posts/Ratings
Some units in this course require that you complete a Discussion Assignment. You are required to develop and post a substantive response to the Discussion Assignment in the Discussion Forum. A substantive response is one that fully answers the question that has been posed by the instructor. In addition, you must extend the discussion by responding to at least three (3) of your peers’ postings in the Discussion Forum and by rating their posts. Instructions for proper posting and rating are provided inside the Discussion Forum for each week. Discussion Forums are only active for each current and relevant learning week, so it is not possible to contribute to the forum once the learning week has come to an end. Failure to participate in the Discussion Assignment by posting in the Discussion Forum and responding to peers as required may result in failure of the course.
Some units in this course require that you complete a Discussion Assignment. You are required to develop and post a substantive response to the Discussion Assignment in the Discussion Forum. A substantive response is one that fully answers the question that has been posed by the instructor. In addition, you must extend the discussion by responding to at least three (3) of your peers’ postings in the Discussion Forum and by rating their posts. Instructions for proper posting and rating are provided inside the Discussion Forum for each week. Discussion Forums are only active for each current and relevant learning week, so it is not possible to contribute to the forum once the learning week has come to an end. Failure to participate in the Discussion Assignment by posting in the Discussion Forum and responding to peers as required may result in failure of the course.
Learning Journal
Your instructor may choose to assign specific topics and/or relevant questions as a weekly Learning Journal entry for you to complete, but you are still encouraged to also use it to document your activities, record questions/problems you may have encountered, reflect on the learning process, and draft answers for other course assignments. The Learning Journal must be updated on a weekly basis because its entries will be assessed by your instructor directly as a part of your final grade. The Learning Journal will only be seen by your instructor.
Your instructor may choose to assign specific topics and/or relevant questions as a weekly Learning Journal entry for you to complete, but you are still encouraged to also use it to document your activities, record questions/problems you may have encountered, reflect on the learning process, and draft answers for other course assignments. The Learning Journal must be updated on a weekly basis because its entries will be assessed by your instructor directly as a part of your final grade. The Learning Journal will only be seen by your instructor.
Quizzes
This course will contain three types of quizzes – the Self-Quiz, the Graded Quiz, and the Review Quiz. These quizzes may contain multiple choice, true/false, or short answer questions. The results of the Self-Quiz will not count towards your final grade. However, it is highly recommended that you complete the Self-Quiz to ensure that you have adequately understood the course materials. Along with the Reading Assignments, the results of the Self-Quiz should be used as part of an iterative learning process, to thoroughly cover and test your understanding of course material. You should use the results of your Self-Quiz as a guide to go back and review relevant sections of the Reading Assignments. Likewise, the Review Quiz will not count towards your final grade, but should also be used to assist you in a comprehensive review and full understanding of all course material, in preparation for your Final Exam. Lastly, the results of the Graded Quiz will count towards your final grade. Specific instructions on the format and content of the Graded Quiz will be provided by your instructor.
This course will contain three types of quizzes – the Self-Quiz, the Graded Quiz, and the Review Quiz. These quizzes may contain multiple choice, true/false, or short answer questions. The results of the Self-Quiz will not count towards your final grade. However, it is highly recommended that you complete the Self-Quiz to ensure that you have adequately understood the course materials. Along with the Reading Assignments, the results of the Self-Quiz should be used as part of an iterative learning process, to thoroughly cover and test your understanding of course material. You should use the results of your Self-Quiz as a guide to go back and review relevant sections of the Reading Assignments. Likewise, the Review Quiz will not count towards your final grade, but should also be used to assist you in a comprehensive review and full understanding of all course material, in preparation for your Final Exam. Lastly, the results of the Graded Quiz will count towards your final grade. Specific instructions on the format and content of the Graded Quiz will be provided by your instructor.
Final Exam
The Final Exam will take place during the Thursday and Sunday of Week/Unit 9, following the completion of eight units of work. The format of the Final Exam is similar to that of the quizzes and may contain a combination of different question types. You will have one attempt to take the exam, and it will be graded electronically. Specific instructions on how to prepare for and take the Final Exam will be provided during Week 8 (located inside the Unit 9 Learning Guide). Final Exams must be taken without the use of course learning materials (both those inside and outside the course). If particular materials are allowed for use during the exam, these will be noted in the exam’s instructions.
The Final Exam will take place during the Thursday and Sunday of Week/Unit 9, following the completion of eight units of work. The format of the Final Exam is similar to that of the quizzes and may contain a combination of different question types. You will have one attempt to take the exam, and it will be graded electronically. Specific instructions on how to prepare for and take the Final Exam will be provided during Week 8 (located inside the Unit 9 Learning Guide). Final Exams must be taken without the use of course learning materials (both those inside and outside the course). If particular materials are allowed for use during the exam, these will be noted in the exam’s instructions.
Course Forum
The Course Forum is the place to raise issues and questions relating to the course. It is regularly monitored by the instructors and is a good place to meet fellow students taking the same course. While it is not required to participate in the Course Forum, it is highly recommended.
The Course Forum is the place to raise issues and questions relating to the course. It is regularly monitored by the instructors and is a good place to meet fellow students taking the same course. While it is not required to participate in the Course Forum, it is highly recommended.
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