This module is an introduction mathematical proof and its applications to probability. The module introduces the topics of set theory, counting, probability and expectation and looks at the methods of proof needed to produce fundamental results in these areas. At its core is the aim to allow students to develop logical arguments applied to sets and simple experiments involving probabilistic outcomes.
This module is core for students with their home department in Statistics and is not available to students from other departments. Students from other departments should consider ST120 Introduction to Probability. It is useful for all subsequent modules in probability or statistics.
The aims of the modules are
This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.
This module covers the following topics: naïve set theory, logic, counting arguments, probability spaces and axioms, conditional probability, random variables, joint distributions, expectation.
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
Ross, S. (2014). A first course in probability. Pearson;
Pitman, J. (1999). Probability, Springer texts in Statistics;
Suhov and Kelbert, Probability and Statistics by Example: Basic Probability and Statistics.
View reading list on Talis Aspire
-Demonstrate facility with advanced mathematical and probabilistic methods.
-Select and apply appropriate mathematical and/or statistical techniques.
-Demonstrate knowledge of key mathematical and statistical concepts, both explicitly and by applying them to the solution of mathematical problems.
-Create structured and coherent arguments communicating them in written form.
-Reason critically, carefully, and logically and derive (prove) mathematical results.
-Problem solving: Use rational and logical reasoning to deduce appropriate and well-reasoned conclusions. Retain an open mind, optimistic of finding solutions, thinking laterally and creatively to look beyond the obvious. Know how to learn from failure.
-Self awareness: Reflect on learning, seeking feedback on and evaluating personal practices, strengths and opportunities for personal growth.
-Communication: Written: Present arguments, knowledge and ideas, in a range of formats.
-Professionalism: Prepared to operate autonomously. Aware of how to be efficient and resilient. Manage priorities and time. Self-motivated, setting and achieving goals, prioritising tasks.
| Type | Required |
|---|---|
| Lectures | 30 sessions of 1 hour (20%) |
| Seminars | 9 sessions of 1 hour (6%) |
| Private study | 85 hours (57%) |
| Assessment | 26 hours (17%) |
| Total | 150 hours |
Weekly revision of lecture notes and materials, wider reading and practice exercises working on problem sets and preparing for the examination.
No further costs have been identified for this module.
You do not need to pass all assessment components to pass the module.
| Weighting | Study time | Eligible for self-certification | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weekly term-time assignments | 20% | 24 hours | Yes (waive) |
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There will be weekly problem sets, of which up to six will contribute towards your module mark. Each problem set will contain a number of individual questions based on the material delivered in the lectures. Weekly problem sheets supported by seminars, including both analytical and computational tasks. |
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| In-person Examination | 80% | 2 hours | No |
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You will be required to answer all questions on this examination paper.
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| Weighting | Study time | Eligible for self-certification | |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-person Examination - Resit | 100% | No | |
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You will be required to answer all questions on this examination paper.
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Individual feedback will be provided on problem sheets by class tutors. A cohort-level feedback will be available for the examination. Students are actively encouraged to make use of office hours to build up their understanding, and to view all their interactions with lecturers and class tutors as feedback.
This module is Core for: