11.220 Quantitative Reasoning & Statistical Methods for Planning I
Spring 2005
Instructors: Joseph Ferreira, Rhonda M. Ryznar
TAs: Rajendra Kumar, Xiongjiu Liao, Georgeta Vidican, Shannon A. McKay, P. Christopher Zegras, Jinhua Zhao, Criseida Navarro-Diaz
Lecture:
MW11-12:30
(4-231)
Lab: W 5:00-6:00 P.M., TH 5:30-6:30 P.M., F 9:00-10:00 A.M.
(37-312)
Recitation 1 (Shannon): M 10-11:00 A.M.
(E52-175)
Recitation 2 (Chris): W 2:30-3:30 P.M.
(9-554)
Recitation 3 (Jinhua): TH 5:30-6:30 P.M.
(3-401)
Course Description:
Many, if not most, planners frequently work with quantitative data. Some summarize, analyze, and present data they have collected themselves or have obtained from secondary sources; others must review quantitative analyses and assess the validity of arguments made therein. This course is designed to prepare you to critically review analyses prepared by others, as well as to conduct basic statistical analysis of data yourself.
Using numerous examples of "real world" quantitative analysis related to the planning profession, we will become familiar with a variety of tools for describing and comparing sets of data, as well as those used to generate estimates and test hypotheses. We will also emphasize the development of sound arguments and research design, such that students appreciate both the power and limits of quantitative analysis in argumentation. Unlike many other statistics classes, 11.220 gives particular attention to developing the skill of expressing statistical ideas in clear, simple language. We view these skills as essential for effective planning practice.
We will use a variety of software packages in this class, building on students' experience in 11.204 and demonstrating the application of programs such as Access, Excel, ArcGIS and SPSS to quantitative and statistical analysis. Students are encouraged to begin practicing their computing skills prior to the start of class and to seek the support they need throughout the term.
Announcements
Final papers returned
11.220 Students:Your final papers have been graded and returned to your folders in the Student Common Room. If any of you who have already left for the summer are eager to see your papers now, please send your mailing address to me (sld@mit.edu) and I'll get your paper in the mail to you.
(Ian Reddy and Il-Joong Kim, I didn't find folders for you--please send me email, thanks.)
-Sue Delaney
Ass't to Prof. Ferreira
Announced on 26 May 2005 2:41 p.m. by Susan Delaney