This course equips biology students with skills in basic quantitative data analyses approaches used in Biology and Ecology, including statistics and computing programming in R. Such skills are important for experimental design and for analysing and interpreting quantitative datasets. Topics covered include elementary computer programming in R, probability and statistics, and introduction to statistical modelling. Examples will be given of quantitative problems arising in biological contexts and will be developed in computer workshops.
Note: Graduate students attend joint classes with undergraduates but will be assessed separately
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
- Write computer codes using the statistical programming language R.
- Understand and apply the basic concepts of probability and statistics.
- Demonstrate an understanding and apply the basic concepts of statistical modelling.
- Apply the basic concepts of probability, statistics and computing to biological problems.
Indicative Assessment
- In class practical tests (72) [LO 1,2,3,4]
- R programming assignments (14) [LO 1,2,3,4]
- Online quizzes (14) [LO 1,2,3,4]
The ANU uses Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. While the use of Turnitin is not mandatory, the ANU highly recommends Turnitin is used by both teaching staff and students. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website.
Workload
The expected workload will consist of approximately 130 hours throughout the semester including:
- 60 hours of face-to face components, which may consist of two 1h lectures per week plus one 3h computer workshop,
- Approximately 70 hours of self-directed study, which will include preparation for workshops and assessments.
Inherent Requirements
To be determined
Requisite and Incompatibility
You will need to contact the Biology Teaching and Learning Centre to request a permission code to enrol in this course.
Prescribed Texts
Not required
Assumed Knowledge
Assumed knowledge: ACT Mathematical Methods or NSW HSC Mathematics or equivalent.Fees
Tuition fees are for the academic year indicated at the top of the page.
Commonwealth Support (CSP) Students
If you have been offered a Commonwealth supported place, your fees are set by the Australian Government for each course. At ANU 1 EFTSL is 48 units (normally 8 x 6-unit courses). More information about your student contribution amount for each course at Fees.
- Student Contribution Band:
- 2
- Unit value:
- 6 units
If you are a domestic graduate coursework student with a Domestic Tuition Fee (DTF) place or international student you will be required to pay course tuition fees (see below). Course tuition fees are indexed annually. Further information for domestic and international students about tuition and other fees can be found at Fees.
Where there is a unit range displayed for this course, not all unit options below may be available.
| Units | EFTSL |
|---|---|
| 6.00 | 0.12500 |
Offerings, Dates and Class Summary Links
ANU utilises MyTimetable to enable students to view the timetable for their enrolled courses, browse, then self-allocate to small teaching activities / tutorials so they can better plan their time. Find out more on the Timetable webpage.
Class summaries, if available, can be accessed by clicking on the View link for the relevant class number.
First Semester
| Class number | Class start date | Last day to enrol | Census date | Class end date | Mode Of Delivery | Class Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2484 | 23 Feb 2026 | 02 Mar 2026 | 31 Mar 2026 | 29 May 2026 | In Person | N/A |