Current Research Topics in Mathematical Statistics, 7.5 Credits

Contents

The course begins by introducing ongoing research in the field of mathematical statistics. It then proceeds to explore various current research topics in this field. To enhance the learning process, students are assigned group projects related to specific research topics where they work on research articles and reproduce the statistical analysis. These assignments are evaluated through written reports and oral presentations, enabling students to showcase their understanding of the subject matter and apply their knowledge to real-world data. Each research topic follows a similar structure, including an introductory lecture, an analysis of relevant articles, and a corresponding assignment.

Expected learning outcomes

For a passing grade, the student must be able to

Knowledge and understanding

• describe and justify the basic structure of a scientific article
• summarise the concepts and relationships of current research topics in mathematical statistics
• describe and explain the current research topics in mathematical statistics
• identify fundamental problems within the current research topics of mathematical statistics
• critically discuss relevant conditions and challenges

Skills and abilities

• critically discuss scientific articles and summarise significant results
• reproduce presented statistical analysis within a published scientific article
• present the planning, implementation, and analysis of a conducted experiment in a research article in oral and written forms
• critically assess and interpret data and draw meaningful conclusions

Judgement and approach

• critically apply statistical methods to typical problems in the field of mathematical statistics
• critically assess the validity and reliability of statistical results
• describe and explain the ethical and sustainability aspects of statistical research studies

Required Knowledge

The course requires a total of 90 ECTS including at least 15 ECTS in Mathematical Statistics on advanced level. Proficiency in English equivalent to the level required for basic eligibility for higher studies.

Form of instruction

The instructional methodology includes lectures, laboratory sessions, and supervised assignments. In addition to these activities, individual engagement with the course materials and activities is imperative for students to attain a successful outcome.

Examination modes

The assessment of student performance is conducted through a series of assignments, with one task assigned to each research topic discussed. For each assignment, students are required to submit a written report, and in addition, they are expected to present orally for one of the assignments. Each assignment will be evaluated and graded as either "Pass" (G) or "Fail" (U). In order to attain an overall grade of "Pass" (G) for the course, it is necessary to pass all assignments successfully.

Examiners may decide to deviate from the modes of assessment in the course syllabus. Individual adaption of modes of assessment must give due consideration to the student's needs. The adaption of modes of assessment must remain within the framework of the intended learning outcomes in the course syllabus. Students who require an adapted examination must submit a request to the department holding the course no later than 10 days before the examination. The examiner decides on the adaption of the examination, after which the student will be notified.

A student awarded a passing grade for the course cannot be re-assessed 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 transfer
All students have the right to have their previous education (or equivalent) and work experience evaluated for possible consideration in the corresponding education at Umeå University. Application forms should be addressed to the Student Services/Degree Evaluation Office. More information regarding credit transfer can be found on the student web pages of Umeå University, http://www.student.umu.se, and in the Higher Education Ordinance (chapter 6). If denied, the application can be appealed (as per the Higher Education Ordinance, chapter 12) to Överklagandenämnden för högskolan. This includes partially rejected applications.

Other regulations

To a degree, this course may not be included together with another course with similar content. If unsure, students should ask the Director of Studies in Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics.

In the event that the syllabus ceases to apply or undergoes major changes, students are guaranteed at least three examinations (including the regular examination opportunity) according to the regulations in the syllabus that the student was originally registered on for a period of a maximum of two years from the time that the previous syllabus ceased to apply or that the course ended.