University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 5

ECTS credits : 2

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 2

Planned timetable: To be confirmed

This module is designed to provide MSc Geochemistry students with a strong background in Statistics and methods of data analysis used in Earth Sciences. The module comprises a series of combined lecture-practical classes. These will cover both statistical concepts (distributions, accuracy and precision, error propagation, Monte Carlo simulations etc.) and applied data manipulation (using spreadsheets and the statistical programming language R). Weekly practical classes will put the lecture material into a practical context and comprise 40% of the module grade. Students also are asked to independently assess a large (n > 100) dataset, provided mid-way through the course, and present their findings as a poster imitating the poster sessions at major conferences. Posters are marked by discussion with staff and will comprise 60% of the module grade. The module will give students the necessary training to allow them to excel in their own data analysis during their Research Dissertations.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 1 hour lecture (8 weeks), 2 hour practicals (8 weeks)

Scheduled learning hours: 24

Guided independent study hours: 24

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 0%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 100%

Re-assessment: Coursework = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr R C J Steele
Module teaching staff: Dr Robert Steele
Module coordinator email rcjs@st-andrews.ac.uk