Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2006-2007 (archived)
Module MATH4191: BAYESIAN METHODS IV
Department: MATHEMATICAL SCIENCES
MATH4191: BAYESIAN METHODS IV
| Type | Open | Level | 4 | Credits | 20 | Availability | Available in 2007/08 and alternate years thereafter | Module Cap | None. | Location | Durham |
|---|
Prerequisites
- Statistical Concepts II (MATH2041).
Corequisites
- None.
Excluded Combination of Modules
- Bayesian Methods III (MATH3311).
Aims
- To provide an overview of practical Bayesian statistical methodology together with important applications.
Content
- Conditional independence.
- Bayesian graphical modelling.
- Elicitation of beliefs.
- Random number generation.
- Markov chain Monte Carlo simulation.
- Analysis of MCMC output.
- Reading material in one of the following areas: approximation of posterior distributions, modelling data collection.
Learning Outcomes
Subject-specific Knowledge:
- An awareness of the abstract concepts of theoretical mathematics in the field of Bayesian methods.
- knowledge and understanding of fundamental theories of these subjects demonstrated through one or more of the following topic areas: Conditional independence.
- Bayesian graphical models.
- Belief elicitation.
- Random number generation.
- Markov chain Monte Carlo simulation.
- Analysis of MCMC output.
- knowledge and understanding of important applications of Bayesian methods in other disciplines.
- knowledge and understanding of a topic in the following areas: approximation of posterior distributions, modelling data collection.
Subject-specific Skills:
- Ability to solve a range of predictable and unpredictable problem solving Bayesian methods for statistical inference.
- Highly specialised and advanced mathematical skills in the following areas: Modelling, Computation.
Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module
- Lectures demonstrate what is required to be learned and the application of the theory to practical examples.
- Subject material assigned for independent study develops the ability to acquire knowledge and understanding without dependence on lectures.
- Assignments for self-study develop problem-solving skills and enable students to test and develop their knowledge and understanding.
- In addition, formatively assessed assignments provide feedback for students and the lecturer on student progress and opportunities for the lecturer to test and enhance development of modelling and computation skills.
- Summative examination assesses acquired knowledge, problem-solving skills and arrange of modelling and computational skills. The subject material assigned for independent study will form part of the examined material.
Teaching Methods and Learning Hours
| Activity | Number | Frequency | Duration | Total/Hours | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lectures | 40 | 2 per week for 19 weeks and 2 in term 3 | 1 hour | 40 | |
| Preparation and Reading | 160 | ||||
| Total | 200 |
Summative Assessment
| Component: Examination | Component Weighting: 100% | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Element | Length / duration | Element Weighting | Resit Opportunity |
| three-hour written examination | 3 hours | 100% | |
Formative Assessment:
Four written assignments to be assessed and returned. Other assignments are set for self-study and complete solutions are made available to students.
■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University