ST205      Half Unit
Sample Surveys and Experiments

This information is for the 2021/22 session.

Teacher responsible

Professor Irini Moustaki

Availability

This course is available on the BSc in Business Mathematics and Statistics, BSc in Management, BSc in Mathematics, Statistics and Business, International Exchange (1 Term) and International Exchange (Full Year). This course is available as an outside option to students on other programmes where regulations permit and to General Course students.

This course cannot be taken with ST307 Aspects of Market Research.

Pre-requisites

Statistics to the level of ST107 Quantitative Methods or SP201 Research Methods for Social Policy.

Course content

Sampling methods for social surveys. Survey design and estimation. Nonresponse and measurement error. Design of experiments and observational studies.

Teaching

This course will be delivered through a combination of classes and lectures totalling a minimum of 30 hours across Michaelmas Term. This year, some of this teaching may be delivered through a combination of pre-recorded lectures, classes and Q&A sessions delivered synchronously. This course includes a reading week in Week 6 of Michaelmas.

 

Formative coursework

Weekly exercises and group presentations. Students are expected to work on a set of exercises weekly and submit them for marking and feedback. Feedback is provided on the weekly exercises by the beginning of the next class. 

Indicative reading

V. Barnett, Sample Survey Principles and Methods (2009)

F.J. Fowler Jr, Survey Research Methods (2008). 

S. Lohr, Sampling: Design and Analysis (2010)

R.L.Scheaffer et al, Elementary Survey Sampling (2005)

Assessment

Exam (80%, duration: 2 hours) in the January exam period.
Coursework (20%) in the MT.

Course selection videos

Some departments have produced short videos to introduce their courses. Please refer to the course selection videos index page for further information.

Student performance results

(2018/19 - 2020/21 combined)

Classification % of students
First 43.6
2:1 37
2:2 14.2
Third 3.7
Fail 1.4

Important information in response to COVID-19

Please note that during 2021/22 academic year some variation to teaching and learning activities may be required to respond to changes in public health advice and/or to account for the differing needs of students in attendance on campus and those who might be studying online. For example, this may involve changes to the mode of teaching delivery and/or the format or weighting of assessments. Changes will only be made if required and students will be notified about any changes to teaching or assessment plans at the earliest opportunity.

Key facts

Department: Statistics

Total students 2020/21: 87

Average class size 2020/21: 13

Capped 2020/21: No

Value: Half Unit

Guidelines for interpreting course guide information

Personal development skills

  • Self-management
  • Team working
  • Problem solving
  • Communication
  • Application of numeracy skills
  • Specialist skills