Design of Experiments, 7.5 Credits

Contents

Element 1 (5 hp) Theory. The theory of the most common tools for systematic planning of experiments and methods for the analysis of experimental results, is covered. ANOVA models are introduced as special cases of general linear models. Special emphasis is put on complete and fractional two level factorial designs. Response surface methods and their designs, and strategies for sequential design of experiments are included. Furthermore, more advanced models for the analysis of variance, with random and mixed effects are treated. Finally robust designs are introduced.

Element 2 (2,5 hp) Lab Assignments. As support for choosing experimental design and analysing data, throughout the course suitable statistical software is used.
 

Expected learning outcomes

For a passing grade, the student must be able to

Knowledge and understanding

• thoroughly explain central notions
• thoroughly describe the models that are used for different experimental designs
• independently describe the purpose of robust construction and how it is applied in experimental design

Skills and abilities

• independently plan and conduct smaller experiments within given time frames
• critically analyse experimental data with suitable software, and draw relevant conclusions
• present the planning, implementation and analysis of a conducted experiment, in oral and written form
• optimize a response variable with response surface methodology

Judgement and approach

• valuate the suitability of the models treated in the course, for different experimental situations

Required Knowledge

The course requires 90 hp including courses in Mathematical Statistics, minimum 15 ECTS or courses in Statistics, minimum 75 ECTS and in both cases a course in Basic Calculus, 7,5 ECTC. Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English A/5. Where the language of instruction is Swedish, applicants must prove proficiency in Swedish to the level required for basic eligibility for higher studies.

Form of instruction

The teaching mainly consists of lectures, seminars and supervised lab work.

Examination modes

Element 1 is examined by a written exam. During the course, the students can get bonus points to be used on the first two written exams after registration. The bonus points are based on the results of assignments that are presented orally and in written form. Element 2 is examined by written lab reports.
On Element 1, one of the following judgements is assigned: Fail (U), Pass (G) or Pass with distinction (VG). On Element 2, one of the following judgements is assigned: Fail (U) or Pass (G). For the whole course, one of the following grades is assigned: Fail (U), Pass (G) or Pass with distinction (VG). In order to receive a passing grade on the course, all parts must be completed with a passing grade. The course grade is decided by the judgement on Element 1, and is assigned only when all mandatory examination has been completed.

A student who has been awarded a passing grade for the course cannot be reassessed for a higher grade. Students who do not pass a test or examination on the original date are given another date to retake the examination. A student who has sat two examinations for a course or a part of a course, without passing either examination, has the right to have another examiner appointed, provided there are no specific reasons for not doing so (Chapter 6, Section 22, HEO). The request for a new examiner is made to the Head of the Department of Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics. Examinations based on this course syllabus are guaranteed to be offered for two years after the date of the student's first registration for the course.
 
Credit transfers
Students are entitled to an assessment of whether previous education or equivalent knowledge and skills acquired in professional experience can be accredited for equivalent studies at Umeå University. Applications for credit transfers must be sent to Student Services/Degree Evaluation Office. More information on credit transfers can be found on Umeå University's student website, www.student.umu.se, and in the Higher Education Ordinance (Chapter 6). Rejected applications for credit transfers can be appealed (Higher Education Ordinance, Chapter 12) to the Higher Education Appeals Board. This applies regardless of whether the rejection relates to all or parts of the credit transfer application.

Other regulations

In a degree, this course may not be included together with another course with a similar content, i.e 5MS001 Quality Techniques and Design of Experiments. If unsure, students should ask the Director of Studies in Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics. The course can also be included in the subject area of computational science and engineering.