MAT 444-01 - Senior Seminar (Spring)

4 credits Spring

Bayesian Statistical Analysis. The debate between classical (or “frequentist”) statisticians and “Bayesian” statisticians has produced controversy, and sometimes surprising levels of animosity, for decades. Recent advances in computing have revolutionized statistical practice by making it easy to obtain Bayesian solutions to complicated problems, which has helped bring the two camps much closer together. This course will introduce the differences between classical and Bayesian methods, and some of the history behind the great statistical schism. Students will learn the basics of Bayesian analysis with an emphasis on showing how Bayesian methods have revolutionized the use of statistics in fields such as medicine, environmental studies, political science, and genetics. We will also explore advanced topics, such as hierarchical models and meta-analysis, which are particularly well suited to a Bayesian approach.

Prerequisite: MAT 335, or MAT 209 with permission of instructor.
Instructor: Jonkman