Statistics and data science are huge and growing disciplines, and we can’t cover everything in class. This statistical experience assignment gives you a chance to engage with the statistics community outside of the classroom and reflect on your experience.
There is one statistical experience in STA 199 this semester. It will be due on Thursday, April 15 at 11:59pm ET. We will not meet as as class on Wednesday April 7, so you have time dedicated to work on this.
Each experience has two parts. Both must be completed to receive credit.
Complete an activity from one of the categories below. Under each category there are a few suggestions, but note you are not restricted to one of these. If you are interested in another activity, please contact the teaching team for approval.
Attend an online talk, panel, or conference related to statistics or data science. If you are attending a single talk or panel, it must be at least 40 minutes to count towards the statistics experience. It should also be one that covers something beyond what we have discussed in the class.
Talk with someone other than the professor who uses statistics in their daily work. This could include a professional statistician or data scientist, researcher, graduate student, etc.
Your conversation may be flexible but please carefully write a list of questions and discussion topics tailored to the individual’s background. Do research on the individual’s field, company, education, etc. Come prepared!
Listen to a podcast about statistics and data science. The podcast must be at least 40 minutes long to count towards the statistics experience. A few suggestions are below:
Participate in a statistics or data science competition. You can participate individually or with a team. Information for an upcoming data challenge is linked below.
There are a lot of books about statistics, data science, and related topics. A few suggestions are below. Many of these books are available through the Duke library.
Other books can be chosen with approval from the teaching team.
Write a maximum one page reflection. Briefly summarize your experience and consider the following questions:
Submit your personal reflection as a PDF under the appropriate Statistical Experience assignment on Gradescope by Thursday, April 15 at 11:59pm ET.