ME116: Introduction to Statistics: Understanding the World through Data

This is an introductory course on statistics and how it can help us answer the kind of questions that arise when we want to better understand the world.

We will use real-world examples from the social and natural sciences to establish the foundations of probability and distribution theory, and introduce important statistical skills, from descriptive statistics to sampling and inference. In addition to these examples, we will conduct interactive experiments in the classroom to demonstrate the use of key techniques.

The main objectives of this course are:

• Understand that the point of statistics is to answer questions about the world.
• Learn to work with data, from constructing simple visual and numerical summaries, to fitting models and assessing the accuracy of their predictions.
• Develop the ability to critically evaluate uses (and misuses) of statistics.

The course should be of value to anyone intending to pursue further study in any field involving the analysis of data.

Students will be expected to bring a laptop to class in order to apply data analysis exercises.

Prerequisites: No previous knowledge of statistics will be assumed, but the use of formulae and the ability to perform basic algebraic manipulations will be necessary. Some knowledge of basic calculus, although not necessary, would be an advantage.

Level: 100 level. Read more information on levels in our FAQs

Fees: Please see Fees and payments

Lectures: 36 hours

Classes: 18 hours

Assessment: Two written examinations

Typical credit: 3-4 credits (US) 7.5 ECTS points (EU)

Please note: Assessment is optional but may be required for credit by your home institution. Your home institution will be able to advise how you can meet their credit requirements. For more information on exams and credit, read Teaching and assessment

This course is designed for students intending to pursue further study in statistics or any other field involving the analysis of data, especially those targeting roles in consulting, government and public policy.

Students who want to get an understanding of how statistics can be used as a tool to test economic theories would also find this course beneficial.

• Understand how statistics can be used to answer real-world questions and test economic theories
• Analyse data to construct visual and numerical summaries
• Apply econometric models to real-world problems and assess the accuracy of their predictions
• Learn how to critically evaluate the uses (and misuses) of statistics

The design of this course is guided by LSE faculty, as well as industry experts, who will share their experience and in-depth knowledge with you throughout the course.