MATHS 422: Theory of Sampling and Surveys (3)

Syllabus

1.  Prerequisite:  MATHS 321 or equivalent.

2.  Course Description:  Survey designs; simple random, stratified, cluster, and systematic sampling; ratio estimates; regression estimates; cost and variance functions.

 

3.  Course Objectives:  The objective of the course is to present the student with the theory and some applications of sampling.  This is a valuable statistical tool.  It is especially important in the areas of opinion polls and census work.

4.  Course Rationale:  Students of statistics must have a broad background to be effective practicing statisticians.  Sampling is a branch of statistics which in many ways is quite different from mathematical statistics.  Therefore, exposure to this topic is extremely important.

5.  Course Content: Simple random sampling:  estimation of means, totals, proportions, and variances; estimation over subpopulations; estimation of ratios; and sample size considerations. Stratified Random Sampling:  estimation of means, totals, and proportions; proportional and optimal allocations; sample size considerations; and construction of strata. Ratio estimators:  estimation method, approximate variance, bias approximations, and unbiased ratio estimators. Cluster sampling:  estimation of means, proportions, and variances; comparison to simple random sampling; and methods for equal and unequal sized clusters Systematic sampling:  estimation of the mean, approximation of the variance, and comparison to cluster sampling.          Double sampling:  Estimation of means and variances; ratio estimators; and optimal allocation.

6.  Course Format:  The class will be taught through a lecture/discussion format. Students will be expected to participate in class regularly, to study the material in the textbook, and to complete a variety of assignments using statistical software.

7.  Evaluation of Student Performance: Course grades are determined primarily by student performance on tests, quizzes, and projects, as well as possibly homework and class participation.  The evaluation and weight of these various components are at the discretion of the individual instructor.

8.  Evaluation of the Course:  The instruction of the course is evaluated by departmental student evaluations and peer evaluations.  The course is reviewed and revised periodically by the Department Undergraduate Programs Committee.

[VDM 10/2005]