Syllabus
General Education Statistics Section 8 MW 2:30pm - Fall 2024
Disclaimer: This syllabus represents my current plans and objectives. As we go through the semester, those plans may need to change to enhance the class learning opportunity. Such changes, communicated clearly, are not unusual and should be expected.
Course Description
This course focuses on statistical reasoning and the solving of problems using real-world data rather than on computational skills. Emphasis is on interpretation and evaluation of statistical results that arise from simulation and technology-based computations using technology more advanced than a basic scientific calculator, such as graphing calculators with a statistical package, spreadsheets, or statistical computing software. Topics include data collection processes (observational studies, experimental design, sampling techniques, bias), descriptive methods using quantitative and qualitative data, bivariate data, correlation, and least squares regression, basic probability theory, probability distributions (normal distributions and normal curve, binomial distribution), confidence intervals and hypothesis tests using p-values.
Course Objectives
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Evaluate measures of central tendency, measures of dispersion, measures of position, probability distributions, confidence intervals, hypothesis tests, and correlations with spreadsheets and graphing calculators.
- Assess data collection processes including observational studies, experimental design, sampling techniques, bias, and graphs.
- Differentiate between descriptive and inferential statistics.
- Analyze and apply the basic concepts of probability.
- Describe a probability distribution and calculate probability values using postulates, rules of probability and various probability distribution tables including binomial distribution.
- Explain the central limit theorem about the mean and Empirical Rule.
- Assess one sample hypotheses about population parameters by using appropriate distributions and constructing confidence intervals about the mean and proportion.
- Calculate and interpret the linear correlation coefficient.
- Assess bivariate data and determine linear regression.
Contact Information
Instructor: Cristina Sizemore (she/her) (feel free to call me Cristina or Prof Sizemore)
Email: csizemore@clcillinois.edu (Best way to contact me. Always use your CLC email account to correspond.)
Phone: 847-543-2901
Office Hours in C162:
- Monday: 10am-11:15am
- Tuesday: 1-2:15pm
- Wednesday: 3:45-5pm
- Thursday: 1-2:15pm
Additional office hours available for students by appointment in person or Zoom. Please email me to let me know your preferred availability. Send emails from your student CLC email account or Canvas Inbox. Please inform me which class and section you are enrolled in.
Required Materials
- Textbook: College of Lake County’s Open Education Resource text, Introductory Statistics view/download here
- Calculator: TI-84 or TI-83 plus or TI-83 graphing calculator. You can buy new, used or check out one (and other technology) from CLC here
- Microsoft Excel, which is granted through the CLC student portal.
- Notebook
- Folder - to keep all classroom materials
Optional: If desired, students may purchase a printed copy of this text through the CLC bookstore (around $10)
Grading Overview
Your overall course grade will be based on your performance on the Exams, Canvas Homeworks, Excel Assignments, In Class Activities and a cumulative Final Exam.
Exams:
Each exam cover 3 to 4 chapters. Each exam is taken in class. Exams include vocabulary, short essay, and problems
based on homework and notes. Exams are paper and pencil. Students will be allowed a one-page summary sheet
(“cheat sheet”) of formulas to be turned in with the exam.
Canvas Homework:
- These are short assessments that cover one or multiple sections from the textbook. The homework can be taken 4 times. The highest of the four attempts will automatically be taken for your grade. If you are happy with your first attempt, it is not necessary for you to retake the homework assessment.
- Canvas Homeworks are made of multiple choice problems and fill in blank.
- After you complete the homework, you will see your answer and the correct answer with an explanation. The second attempt will have the same type of questions but may be in a different order or use different numbers.
Excel Assignments:
- Excel Assignments are different from Canvas Homework. These assignments have specific instructions. You will be graded on using Excel functions. For example if you are finding the average of 15 numbers, you are expected to use the Excel function to find the average instead of using your calculator and just typing it in.
- I expect these projects to be done on your own. However, I am here to help. I can help choose the correct function. I can help fix any error messages that come up. You do not need previous knowledge of Excel. You will be turning these projects via Canvas (like attaching a file to email). I am also available to meet outside of these times. I can meet in person or via zoom on other days and times. Please send me an email or Canvas inbox message to set up a time and place to meet.
- You do not need to purchase Excel if you do not have it. You have access to Excel Online as a CLC student.
http://portal.office.com (login with full email address, example: username@stu.clcillinois.edu and your password)
In Class Group Activities:
In class group activities can be in the form of a:
- Group quiz: These are to be done as a group and turned in during the same class period. They will be graded, and all members of the group receive the same grade. Each quiz is hand written and covers problems from the homework, notes, or textbook. The quizzes are done in class. Groups will be formed randomly.
- Other activities such as simulations, reflections, games etc. might not be collected and they will be graded based on your participation.
In class group activities are meant to be done in class, thus one cannot make-up in class activities. However, some of each of the in class activities type grades will be dropped to account for unforeseen circumstances that prevent you from attending class. For example, if we take 6 group quizzes and 14 other in class group assignments, I will drop one group quiz grade and 2-3 other group activities grade.
Final Exam:
The Final Exam is a cumulative final that covers chapters 1 to 10 and 13. The final is set up like the unit exams but covers more material. Final must be taken to receive a passing grade (A, B, C, or D).
| Grade Distribution | Final Grade Scale |
|
3 In Class Exams 45% |
> 89.5% = A |
|
Online Canvas Homework 20% |
> 79.5% = B |
|
Excel Assignments 10% |
> 69.5% = C |
|
In class group activities 10% |
> 59.5% = D |
|
Final exam 15% |
below 59.5% = F |
Late Work Policies
Extensions will be granted on a case-by-case basis and is situation dependent. I understand that things come up, and communication is essential. Emailing me to communicate your situation is your responsibility, but not a guarantee of an extension. (csizemore@clcillinois.edu) . There are no make-ups for in class activities but a few lowest grades will be dropped at the end of the semester. There is no make-up for exams. If you miss one exam (except final exam) for whatever reason, your missed exam grade will be replaced by the average of your other two exams.
Withdrawing from the Class: There are 3 types of Withdrawals
Withdrawing from a class means that you no longer want to be enrolled in the class. Your transcript and the grade for the course may vary depending on the time at which you withdraw or request to withdraw from a course. The table below briefly outlines the actions you must take and the potential outcomes if you decide to withdraw from
this course. I can help with understanding the difference. We can discuss different options if you are unsure.
| If you wish to withdraw: | You must: | What you will see on your transcript: |
| Prior to the Refund Date Wednesday, Sep 4th | Withdraw from course via Student Center |
transcript will not reflect enrollment in the course and you will be refunded |
| Between the Refund Date Sept 4th & the last day to withdraw Nov 12th |
Withdraw from course via Student Center |
a grade of "W" will be recorded on your transcript NOTE: you will still be responsible for payment for the course (100%) There is no partial refund |
| Any time after Nov 12th but before completion of the final project or last assignment |
Request a withdrawal from your instructor and follow their directions |
|
Important Dates
Course Dates: Monday Aug 19th - Wed Dec 11th
Last Date to Withdraw with a Refund and No Grade: September 4th
Last Date to Withdraw with a Grade: November 12th
Midterm: October 15th
Last Day to Complete an Incomplete: April 12, 2025
Support Information
- For Canvas support contact:
- (888) 970-4638
- Chat with Canvas Student Support
- CLC Account Passwords or any other computer-related technical support contact the CLC Helpdesk.
- (847) 543-HELP (4357)
- helpdesk@clcillinois.edu
- Chat with CLC Helpdesk (Students only)
- For help with Class Material
- If you need help in the course, your first stop should be my office hours. I am here to help you succeed and/or direct you towards the necessary resources/steps. You are welcome to attend any office hours and no appointment is necessary. Office hours will be very informal. You can just come and work in my office and see if any questions arise.
- CLC Tutoring center is also a great resource. You must enroll in their Canvas course to see hours, resources and make an appointment. They offer drop in help and you can also make appointments with specific tutors. Here are the hours when tutors for Mth 142 are available: Mth 142 Tutoring Hours
- Access and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) If you have a documented disability that requires academic accommodations, please
let me know within the first two weeks of classes . You will need to send me the Instructor Notification Form, so I can prepare the accommodations correctly. To request academic accommodations due to a disability, please contact the ADRC (847) 543-2474 in Room B171. More info here. - Other
- CLC Academic Resources page for more general resources.
- Snapshot pdf with all available resources
CLC Student Resources
Thriving in college involves studying and taking care of you. CLC offers many free resources to ensure that you will achieve your educational goals. Support for your basic needs such as food, housing, finances, technology, and access to wellness and mental health services are available. You are eligible for most resources simply by being a CLC student. Visit student resources in the Student Portal or the resources section inside Navigate for information. Email resources@clcillinois.edu for assistance.
Access and Disability Resource Center (ADRC)
The College of Lake County prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in its services, programs, activities, and employment. The Access and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) provides academic accommodation, information and support to students with disabilities. Individuals with disabilities may be provided the following classroom accommodations, including but not limited to extended time for exams, in-class note-takers, interpreters, and readers. The ADRC is located in Room B171 at the Grayslake Campus. Additional information may be obtained by calling the ADRC office at (847) 543-2474 or email: ADRC@clcillinois.edu. If you have already contacted the ADRC and have completed the Faculty Notification Letter, please set a time to meet with your instructor to discuss your needs.
Advising Center
The Advising Center supports students with making the transition to college life and reaching their academic and career goals. Each student is assigned an Academic Success Advisor (ASA) who will be the point person for assisting the student during their time at CLC. Students can find who their ASA is via the My Classes section on the Student Portal or in Navigate and connect with them via Navigate’s online appointment scheduler, in addition to via email, text, or phone. Students can also contact the Advising Center at (847) 543-2060, advising@clcillinois.edu or stop by the office on any campus: Grayslake, Room B118; Lakeshore, Room N211; and Southlake, Room V130.
Career and Job Placement Center (CJPC)
Career and Job Placement Center (CJPC) helps CLC students learn the skills to prepare job search materials (cover letter, resume assistance), find student employment jobs on campus, and job leads, interview successfully, network and find an internship and apprenticeship opportunities. Career Specialists are available to meet with students individually. Make an appointment to get a jumpstart on your career!
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
FREE mental health services are available at Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) in A151 at the Grayslake Campus. Please call (847) 543-2032 or come to A151 to make an appointment. Currently enrolled students at ALL campuses are eligible for CAPS services. Read more on the CAPS website. If you have a crisis outside of CAPS hours, please contact x988 to be connected to a trained crisis support professional.
Educational Technology
Regular computer access is important for your success in this course. Students who need assistance to access computers, internet hotspots, calculators, and other technology tools should visit the Technology & Learning Resources page for information about accessing and borrowing technology.
SHARE Market
The SHARE Market is committed to providing food and resources related to food security and some basic needs items to CLC students as a way to aid in student success. Generally, the SHARE Market is open Monday - Friday from 10am - 3pm in A012 on the Grayslake Campus but hours can vary each semester. Folks are encouraged to reach out to ShareMarket@clcillinois.edu to verify operational hours.
Folks can also email the SHARE Market email to verify if the SHARE Market is accepting donations, and if so, what kind of donations are in need. The SHARE Market expanded its reach, in Fall of 2022, both Athletics (Building F at Grayslake campus) and Lake Shore Campus (126A) have a smaller version of the SHARE Market. The SHARE Market also fills pick-up orders, open to all students across CLC's campuses, request to make pick-up orders on the SHARE Market website.
The SHARE Market's website includes a PDF list of other food pantries within Lake County that is available for folks to view at their leisure. If a student has other needs besides what the SHARE Market can provide, they are encouraged to contact the United Way of Lake County: Call 211.
Tutoring - Including Writing Center & Math Center
The Tutoring Center offers free, personalized academic support to CLC students in a range of subjects, including writing, math, and science. We are happy to work with students online or in-person at Grayslake (L135), Lakeshore (S209), or Southlake (V212). Make an appointment using Navigate or visit the Tutoring Center in Canvas for a complete list of subjects, locations, and hours. If you have questions, stop by, call 847-543-2036, or email tutoring@clcillinois.edu.
Academic Dishonesty
Please be aware, committing academic dishonesty is a serious offense. The College has a clear definition of academic dishonesty which includes but is not limited to the following five main categories: academic sabotage, cheating, fabrication, falsification, and plagiarism. There are consequences for committing academic dishonesty which involve both academic sanctions (penalties) and indication of the violation on the student’s permanent CLC Conduct Record. That said, the College is committed to help reduce Academic Dishonesty through education, therefore please utilize the following resource: Academic Integrity Information Course (Canvas Course).
COVID-19 Information
Before coming to campus, please conduct a personal wellness check and stay home if you are sick. If you have been recently diagnosed with COVID-19, email the COVID-19 Concerns Team at covid19concerns@clcillinois.edu prior to coming to campus.
Disclosure of Classroom Recordings
When appropriate, accommodations may allow a student to record or capture classroom instruction and discussion. Students who qualify for such accommodations are required to abide by the terms and conditions of the College regarding the appropriate use of such services and/or devices. This means that pursuant to 720 ILCS 5/14-2(2014), all students are hereby notified that all course content may be recorded without further announcement and without individual consent.
Land Acknowledgement Statement
We respectfully acknowledge that the College of Lake County is on the ancestral homelands of the Kickapoo, Peoria, Potawatomi, and other Native Peoples. We recognize the longstanding significance of these lands for Indigenous Peoples past, present, and future. Historical awareness of Indigenous exclusion and erasure is critically important to preventing further atrocities. The College of Lake County pledges to acknowledge the grave injustices of the past and pledges to create awareness and advance education that invites truth.
Non-Discrimination
The College of Lake County is committed to providing an educational and workplace environment free from harassment and discrimination and accordingly will not tolerate discrimination or harassment against any person because of race, color, age, sex, national origin, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, military or veteran status, genetic information, ancestry, citizenship, parental status, pregnancy, domestic violence, economic status or any other status protected by law. This Policy applies to all College employees, students, visitors, volunteers, independent contractors, elected officials, and third-parties in connection with any College program or activity, whether on or off campus. Any student who believes they have been subject to unlawful discrimination or harassment is encouraged to immediately contact the Title IX Coordinator or Student Conduct Officer.
Religious Observance
The College of Lake County accommodates individual students' religious observances in regard to admissions, class attendance, scheduling of examinations, and work. To request accommodation, students who expect to miss classes, examinations, or other assignments as a consequence of their religious observance should provide me advance notice of the date or dates they will be absent.
Safe Zone
As a means of increasing CLC’s commitment to open access and educational opportunity, CLC has actively participated in the national Safe Zone program since the fall semester of 2003. The national program represents an effort to address homophobia, heterosexism, and transphobia in schools and is intended to provide support for LGBTQ+ students, faculty, and staff. The LGBTQ+ Resource Center facilitated program tangibly identifies safe allies for LGBTQ+ people in an effort to increase students’ academic success and retention. I hereby declare myself as such an ally, and this class as a Safe Zone.
It is CLC policy for students to use whatever bathroom they wish to use on campus. This policy is supported by the gender-inclusive signs in front of every bathroom. There is also a single unit, gender-neutral bathroom stall in the C-wing on the first floor (C160A).
If you wish to change your name on Canvas to your preferred name, please contact the Dean of Student Life, by calling (847) 543-2287.
Student Records/FERPA
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) gives students certain rights with respect to their education records. Please see the CLC catalog for more details, or learn more about FERPA.
Student Rights and Responsibilities Policy (SRRP)
The Student Rights and Responsibilities Policy (SRRP) and associated procedures describe students' rights and responsibilities, as well as examples of misconduct inconsistent with the academic environment at CLC. For more information, refer to Student Rights and Responsibilities Procedures (PDF).
Title IX
The College of Lake County seeks to provide an environment that is free of bias, discrimination, and harassment. If you have been the victim of sexual harassment/misconduct/assault, we encourage you to report this. If you report this to a faculty member, they must notify our college's Title IX coordinator about the basic facts of the incident. For more information about your options at CLC, refer to Title IX Procedures (PDF). You can also contact Kristin Jones, Title IX and Compliance Coordinator, at kjones24@clcillinois.edu or by calling (847) 543-2464.
Withdrawing from Class
You are responsible for dropping or withdrawing from classes you do not intend to complete. Grades of W will only be assigned to students who withdraw themselves. Tuition and fee refunds will be issued to eligible students based upon the effective date of withdrawal, which is recorded in the system at the time the student drops the class.
Instructors are required to administratively withdraw students who never attended or stopped attending class. All administratively withdrawn courses will remain on your academic record and are not eligible for a refund. Grades will be assigned based on dates of attendance:
WN – You never attended class: no impact on GPA
WS – You stopped attending class: no impact on GPA
FW – You stopped attending class after the official withdraw deadline and your instructor deems you failing: equivalent of F grade for GPA.
In order to withdraw and receive a grade of W after the deadline, you must request a withdrawal from your instructor; requests must be made in writing and additional approvals may be required. You must have a passing grade at the time the withdrawal request is made. Once approved, you will be withdrawn from class.