STT 200 Syllabus Notes

STT 200 Syllabus Notes

  • This document compiles all major and minor points from the STT 200 syllabus transcript, organized as comprehensive study notes. It is intended toreplace or supplement the original source material for exam preparation.

Course overview and objectives

  • Course: STT 200 – Statistical Methods (Fall 2025)
  • Credits: 3-credit first course in statistical methods.
  • Topics covered:
    • Data analysis
    • Informal probability
    • Simulation-based inference
    • Estimation
    • Tests of hypotheses
    • Confidence intervals
    • Simple linear regression
  • Prerequisites: One of the following or a designated score on the Mathematics Placement test:
    • MTH 101, MTH 102, MTH 103, MTH 110, MTH 116, MTH 124, MTH 132, LB 118
  • Course purpose and experiences:
    • Gain experience with statistical procedures in personal and professional contexts
    • Learn where and how procedures are used, benefits and limitations
    • Build foundation for future statistics courses
    • Use real-life data and situations where possible
    • Develop skills for visualization and summarization of data; determine what can be due to chance; evaluate limitations and value of procedures
  • Alignment with MSU Undergraduate Learning Goals:
    • Analytical Thinking
    • Cultural Understanding
    • Effective Citizenship
    • Effective Communication
    • Integrated Reasoning

Logistics: meeting times, contact, and communication

  • Course meetings:
    • Lectures: in-person only, Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 3:00 pm – 3:50 pm, in BCC N130
    • Recitation: in-person on Tuesdays (scheduled time/location per student schedule)
  • Instructor:
    • Dr. Andriana Manousidaki (she/her), Academic Specialist, Department of Statistics and Probability
    • Office hours/bookings:
    • 10-minute meetings available during first weekly window: Tue 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm and Thu 12:40 pm – 2:00 pm
    • Steps to book:
      1) Visit the booking page for Dr. Manousidaki
      2) Choose either the Zoom or in-person meeting tile
      3) Select a 10-minute slot
      4) If no slot works, email: manousid@msu.edu to find an alternative
  • TA information:
    • Name and contact details available in D2L syllabus version; course coordinator is Professor Fairbourn (fairbour@msu.edu)
  • Communication policy:
    • All communications outside class and office hours should use MSU email
    • Use MSU email and include section number in all communications
    • FERPA regulations prevent contacting external emails about the course
    • Expect responses within one business day; if emailing after 5 pm Friday, expect response by Monday
  • How instructors/TA will contact students:
    • D2L (Desire2Learn) is the designated LMS for content access and grades
    • Course-wide announcements posted on the D2L homepage and archived in the announcements tool
    • Occasionally emails may come from the course coordinator or TA
  • Important responsibility:
    • Regularly check the D2L homepage and email

Materials, subscriptions, and required equipment

  • WeBWorK (homework):
    • Required subscription via CashNet: $75.00
    • Payment window: Opens September 19, 2025; due by 10:00 AM on September 26, 2025
    • Payment instructions and due dates available on WeBWorK website
    • You will have 4 weeks of free access before payment is required
    • Strict no-refund policy for WeBWorK fees; the payment window opens after the last day to drop with a refund (Sep 18)
  • Top Hat (classroom response system):
    • Required subscription; details at https://tophat.com/
  • Graphing calculator:
    • Required: capable of calculating probability distributions (TI-83/84, TI-89, TI-Nspire, or similar)
    • Instructors will use TI-84 in class and recitations; you must learn to use alternate calculators on your own
  • Lecture notes (STT 200 Notes):
    • Strongly recommended: free PDFs posted on D2L for each module
    • Optional bound packet: STT 200 COURSE PACKET, available from Allegra.net for $27.27
    • Entire course pack can be downloaded for free from D2L
  • Textbook (optional):
    • Introduction to Modern Statistics, Second Edition, Mine Cetinkaya-Rundel and Johanna Hardin
    • PDF version available for free from the textbook website; printed copy available for $25 from Amazon
  • Summary of required materials:
    • WeBWorK subscription ($75)
    • Top Hat subscription
    • Graphing calculator
  • Optional but useful resources:
    • STT 200 lecture notes (free on D2L; bound packet for purchase)
    • Textbook (optional)

Course assignments and grading (structure and weights)

  • WeBWorK Homework – 25% of total grade:
    • 10 online homework assignments hosted at https://math.msu.edu/Student
    • All assignments due at 11:59 pm (due date per assignment on WeBWorK site)
    • One low WeBWorK grade dropped before final grade calculation
    • Problems have a limited number of attempts; extra attempts not provided except in university IT disruptions
    • Complete assignments early to avoid issues; extensions may be granted for severe circumstances (events, holidays, etc.) at instructor’s discretion
  • In-class Assessments (Top Hat) – 5% of total grade:
    • Weekly Top Hat questions/attendance contribute to weekly participation grade
    • A 5-question Top Hat quiz is available each week for make-up points
    • Each week has a maximum of 15 points counted toward that week; more than 15 points available, but only the first 15 count
    • One low participation grade dropped at the end of the semester
  • Recitation Activities – 5% of total grade:
    • All recitation meetings are required; 11 learning activities to be completed and submitted to instructor
    • Each recitation activity is worth 10 points
    • The lowest recitation score will be dropped before final grades are calculated
    • The recitation session before each midterm is a review for that exam
  • Exams – 65% of total grade (two midterms + one final):
    • Exam 1: Wednesday, October 1, 2025, 7:45 pm – 9:00 pm
    • Exam 2: Wednesday, November 5, 2025, 7:45 pm – 9:00 pm
    • Exam 3 (Final): Wednesday, December 10, 2025, 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
    • Locations announced in class and posted in D2L
    • All exams in-person; closed book; calculator allowed and encouraged; no internet-enabled devices
    • Exam format: multiple choice, true/false, short answer problems with interpretation; computer output may be used
    • A formula sheet is distributed with each exam and posted on D2L
    • Bring MSU student ID, pencils, and a graphing calculator (any type that cannot connect to the internet)
    • No review/cheat sheets or outside materials
  • Make-up policy (assignments and exams):
    • Make-up assignments/exams may be given case-by-case in consultation with section instructor and course coordinator
    • Valid reasons: medical with documentation, university-sanctioned events, religious holidays, military obligation, grief absences (MSU approval)
    • Exam dates known in advance; work/travel are not valid reasons for missing an exam
    • Make-up exam: next day after the exam, time/place TBD; documentation required at least 1 week before exam date to be eligible
    • If late or missing without unexcused reason, may be disallowed; if allowed, make-up may incur a 25% penalty on total exam points
    • Missed exams with no communication within 24 hours (except extreme emergencies) may receive a 0
  • Recitation make-up policy:
    • Sick with documentation (doctor’s note, COVID positive test, etc.) or approved reason: email documentation to instructor for exemption from missed recitation
    • If no documentation, the lowest recitation grade will be dropped
    • If a recitation must be missed, obtain appropriate documentation to be exempted from that recitation in future
  • Make-up policy for recitations:
    • Make-up recitations are not offered; solutions posted on D2L to complete at own time
    • Recitation solutions and solution key posted on D2L
  • Top Hat policy specifics:
    • Top Hat points can be made up via a make-up Top Hat assignment
    • Grades organized by Top Hat grade items on D2L; item names correspond to Top Hat start/end dates
    • Ignore Top Hat grades/averages in the Top Hat grade book; check D2L grade book on the Friday after end date (8 pm)
  • Extra credit:
    • Extra credit WeBWorK assignments accompany each homework; problems similar to actual homework
    • Each extra credit problem is worth one point if all parts are answered correctly; partial credit allowed (e.g., 3 of 4 parts correct = 0.75)
    • Unlimited attempts per extra credit problem; open all semester until 11:59 PM on the day of the final exam
    • Contribution to final grade: (percentage of extra credit problems completed correctly) × 0.025
    • Maximum possible extra credit contribution: 2.5% of final grade
    • Recommended to work on extra credit throughout the semester
  • Grade calculation and final grade policy:
    • Grade components and weights (as percentages):
    • WeBWorK Homework: 25%25\%
    • In-class work (Top Hat): 5%5\%
    • Recitation Activities: 5%5\%
    • Midterm Exam 1: 20%20\%
    • Midterm Exam 2: 20%20\%
    • Final exam: 25%25\%
    • Extra credit: up to 2.5%2.5\%
    • Final grade is the sum of weighted components (plus up to 2.5% from extra credit)
  • Grading scale (final grades):
    • 4.0: 90% and above
    • 3.5: 85% - 89.99%
    • 3.0: 80% - 84.99%
    • 2.5: 75% - 79.99%
    • 2.0: 70% - 74.99%
    • 1.5: 65% - 69.99%
    • 1.0: 60% - 64.99%
    • 0: 0% - 59.99%
  • Final grades are rounded to two decimals; do not curve the grades
  • Requests to round grades or change cutoffs will not receive a response
  • If you have questions about grading, contact the instructor via email or during office hours
  • Incomplete grade policy (I):
    • May be given if the student has completed at least 6/7 of the term and cannot complete course work due to illness or compelling reason
    • Student must have satisfactory work and be capable of completing the required work without repeating the course, per instructor judgment

Attendance, drops, adds, and reporting

  • Drops and adds:
    • Last day to add the course: August 29
    • Last day to drop with tuition refund and no grade reported: September 18
    • Last day to drop with no refund and no grade reported: October 13
    • Students should verify their amended schedule after adding/dropping
  • Attendance and reporting non-attendance:
    • If your name does not appear on the official class list, you cannot attend
    • In compliance with federal regulations for financial aid and veterans benefits, instructors must report students who stop attending or never attend
    • Students may be administratively dropped for non-attendance
  • Disruptive behavior:
    • Student rights and responsibilities: conduct should be conducive to teaching and learning; violations may lead to disciplinary action
  • Build rapport:
    • If trouble keeping up with assignments, inform the instructor early to help identify solutions
    • Building rapport and effective relationships are key to becoming a successful professional

Accessibility, equity, and support services

  • Disability accommodations:
    • MSU is committed to accessibility
    • Requests may be made through the Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities (RCPD): 517-884-RCPD or online
    • Upon eligibility, an Accommodation Letter will be issued; email it to the instructor at the start of term or two weeks before accommodation date
  • Grief Absence Policy (MSU):
    • Follow the University Grief Absence Policy
    • Student responsibilities: notify Associate Dean or designee within one week, provide verification, and complete missed work as determined by instructor
    • Associate Dean/designee responsibilities: determine expected absence period, notify faculty, verify authenticity upon return
    • Link: https://reg.msu.edu/ROInfo/Notices/GriefAbsence.aspx
  • Honors option: available; details in the HTML version of the Syllabus on D2L
  • Pregnancy, Title IX, and related policies:
    • Title IX and related support for pregnant/postpartum students; MSU resources available; contact details for Title IX Office provided
    • Pregnancy-related accommodations and supports are outlined (Title IX and related offices)
  • Religious observance policy:
    • Updated policy available at Provost site; notify instructor at least two weeks prior to conflicts (e.g., exams)
  • Sexual harassment and safety reporting:
    • MSU policies on sexual assault/harassment; reporting channels outlined; contact information provided; confidential options available (Counseling Center)
  • Academic integrity and conduct:
    • MSU Policy on Integrity of Scholarship and Grades; Spartan Code of Honor emphasize honesty and integrity in work
    • All course work must reflect student’s own work; tutoring allowed for coursework but not for exams
    • Violations may incur penalties, including failure on assignments or course
  • Confidentiality limits:
    • Most course materials are confidential under university policies
    • Some information must be reported (e.g., suspected child abuse/neglect, sexual assault/harassment involving MSU community, credible threats)
    • Reports may trigger contact from campus officials; confidential discussions encouraged via Counseling Center
  • Generative AI Tools policy:
    • AI tools should not be used to complete course assignments in STT 200
    • Use of AI tools on exams is considered academic misconduct and may lead to penalties and an Academic Dishonesty Report
  • Classroom civility and safety:
    • Respectful conduct toward instructors and peers; MSU guidelines on masks and COVID protocols
    • The university emphasizes tolerance of diverse perspectives and civil behavior

Additional considerations and resources

  • Changes to the syllabus:
    • Instructor reserves right to modify the syllabus; substantial changes will be announced in class and posted on D2L
  • Tutoring and learning resources:
    • Statistics Learning Center (SLC) available to supplement learning; not a substitute for attending lectures and recitations
    • SLC schedule and contact information can be found on the course homepage in D2L and at the SLC page
    • Come prepared with specific questions; early visits are more effective due to peak hours before assignments
  • Technology and data ethics:
    • Emphasis on using technology responsibly for statistical analysis and data interpretation
  • Practical implications and real-world relevance:
    • Procedures taught align with real-world data analysis and decision making
    • Emphasizes limitations and assumptions underlying statistical methods
  • Important reminders:
    • Bring MSU ID, pencils, and a graphing calculator to each exam
    • Exams are closed-book; no internet-enabled devices during exams
    • Review sheets and study materials are distributed with exams and posted on D2L

Quick summary of key numbers and policies

  • Credits: 3
  • Lecture time: Mon/Wed/Fri, 3:00–3:50 pm; location: BCC N130
  • Recitation: Tue (time/location in schedule)
  • WeBWorK: 10 assignments; 25% of grade; $75; $0 refunds; 4 weeks free access; due 11:59 pm per assignment
  • Top Hat: 5% of grade; weekly quizzes; make-up via Top Hat; check D2L on Friday after end date
  • Recitation activities: 11 activities; 10 points each; lowest dropped; 5% of grade
  • Exams: 65% total; Exam 1 Oct 1, Exam 2 Nov 5, Final Dec 10; in-person; closed book; calculator allowed
  • Extra credit: up to 2.5% of final grade; unlimited attempts; associated with each WeBWorK assignment
  • Important dates:
    • Last day to add: August 29
    • Last day to drop with refund: September 18
    • Last day to drop without refund: October 13
    • Final exam date: December 10
  • Accessibility and accommodations: via RCPD; accommodation letters to instructor
  • Grief absence policy: per MSU policy; notify appropriate administrator; provide verification

Study-ready takeaways

  • Understand the weight distribution and how each component contributes to the final grade
  • Be aware of the make-up policies and the importance of documentation for absences
  • Ensure you have the required materials and know how to access them (D2L, WeBWorK, Top Hat)
  • Plan around major dates (exams, drop deadlines, payment windows) and staffing/testing policies
  • Know where to seek help (SLC, instructor, TA, TA office hours) and how to communicate effectively within MSU policies