Introduction to R, 3 Credits

Contents

R is a programming language that is both free to use and open source. Its primary focus is on tasks related to statistical analysis and data visualization. In other words, R can help users extract insights and knowledge from data.

This course gives a basic introduction to the programming language R and to RStudio. The students are familiarized with the concept of functions in programming and how to create and use their own functions in R. Also, some common and useful functions already built into the R are covered, e.g., for visualization of data. Moreover, students will get an overview of how to install and use R packages, how to read and write data from and into files. The course also includes a basic introduction to the different types of data associated with R and basic concepts of procedural programming languages (e.g., conditionals and loops) and their applications in R.  The students will also learn how to critically evaluate and debug code.

Expected learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding

Students must be able to
1.    Distinguish between the different types of data structures associated with R

Skills and ability

Students must be able to
2.    Perform data import, basic mathematical operations, and plotting using R
3.    Apply different basic programming functions for a given problem
4.    Write simple R scripts based on a specified problem formulation
5.    Use R packages and their included functions available from CRAN

Judgement and approach

Students must be able to
6.    Critically evaluate and debug R scripts

Required Knowledge

Form of instruction

The course is given online, with material provided through a learning platform. The material provided consists of recommended videos and reading, practical online exercises, practice quizzes and code examples. Throughout the course, students are assigned (voluntary and mandatory) assignments, for which they are offered tutoring and feedback.

Examination modes

The examination consists of written individual assignments. The grades used are G (Pass), and U (Fail). To obtain the grade G (Pass) the student needs to pass all mandatory assignments.  

A student who has passed an examination is not allowed to take another examination in order to get a higher grade. For students who do not pass, an additional test will be held according to a set schedule.

Exceptions from examination form as stated in the syllabus can be made for a student who has a decision on pedagogical support for disabilities. Individual adaptations of the examination form should be considered based on the student's needs. The examination form shall be adapted within the framework of the expected learning outcomes stated in the course syllabus. At the request of the student, the course's responsible teacher, in consultation with the examiner, must promptly decide on the adapted examination form. The student must then be informed of the decision.

After two failed examinations in a course, or part of a course, the student has the right to request another examiner unless there are special reasons against it. The request for a new examiner is made to the Director of studies at the Department of statistics.

Examinations based on the same course syllabus as the ordinary examinations are guaranteed to be offered up to two years after the date of the student's first registration for the course.

Academic credit transfer
Academic credit transfers are according to the University credit transfer regulations.