• 1702-360 Probability & Statistics I
• Professor: Dr. Abera Abay, Office: 228M (2nd floor, Robinson Hall), Tel. 256-4500 Ext. 3878
• E-mail: abay@rowan.edu

Prerequisite: Calculus II

Syllabus: This course is an introduction to the theory and application of probability and statistics at the post-calculus level. After a brief introduction to the concepts of descriptive and inferential statistics, the emphasis is on probability theory and its applications. Topics covered include sample spaces, random variables, discrete and continuous probability distributions, mathematical expectation, moment generating functions and multivariate distributions. We will cover chapters 2-4 of the textbook.

Required Materials:

• Textbook: Larsen and Marx, An Introduction to Mathematical Statistics and Its Applications, 4th edition, Prentice Hall, 2006.
• Supplement: The student’s solution manual for the text
• Calculator: A graphing calculator, such as the TI-89.

Grading Policy:

Distribution:
• 10% - Attendance & class participation
• 90% - Three tests
Test 1: Chapters 2
Test 2: Sections 3.2 to 3.11
Test 3: Section 3.12 & chapter 4

Numerical grades will be converted to letter grades by the following scale.
A = 90 to 100, B = 80 to 89, C = 70 to 79, D = 60 to 69, F = 0 to 59

Please note that this course has no pass/no credit option.

Attendance Policy:

Attendance is mandatory. An attendance sheet will be passed around at the beginning of each class period. Please write your signature next to your printed name on the list. If you are absent/tardy from a class, you must submit a note requesting that the absence/tardiness be excused by the next class meeting. Each student is allowed a total of three unexcused absences/tardies (combined). If you miss a class, it is your responsibility to study the section(s) covered and do the homework.

If you are absent the day of a regularly scheduled test, a grade of zero is automatically recorded as your test score. You will be permitted to make up this zero only when you can confirm that you were absent for reasons beyond your control. In such cases, you must telephone 256-4500 extension 3878 (or send me an e-mail) and leave a message including your name and telephone number, the reason for your absence and the date you anticipate returning. Students who fail to leave the above information will be assigned the grade of zero for that test.

Academic Honesty: Cheating on a test or assignment seriously undermines the integrity of the academic system and will not be tolerated. If I determine that a student has cheated, I will assign the grade of F for this course and send a letter to this effect to his advisor. Although a student is not cheating, he or she is expected to refrain from actions that could be suspicious. Using common sense on your part should avoid unnecessary embarrassment.
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Classroom rules:

• Students will abide by Rowan's student code of conduct and policy on academic honesty. Improper behavior will not be tolerated.
• Students are not permitted to leave the classroom during class period except for emergencies or unless prior arrangements have been made with the instructor. Please use the restrooms before class begins.
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Students with Disabilities and Special Needs: Please speak with me as early in the semester as possible so that we can make appropriate accommodations for you. If necessary, you can also contact the Office of Special Services.
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Questions in Class: The best time to ask questions is during class. Many times students fear that their questions will seem foolish, while in fact, many others also have the same question. I urge you to ask your questions during class. If you have questions that were not answered in class, you may stop by my office during the following office hours.
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Office Hours: M, W: 10:50 – 12:05 p.m.; T: 12:15 – 1:30 p.m. and by appointment.
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Homework Problems: A list of homework problems is attached. You are expected to do these problems after we cover a given section.