Cognitive Science 0149 - Statistics Using Baseball

Statistics is a field that tries to interpret data in the face of random variation. The methods used in statistics are often abstract which can make them hard to understand. Baseball is a simple game that contains a high degree of randomness, and thus offers a great way to ground statistical concepts in terms of simple actions taken by the players. In this class we examine key concepts in statistics using baseball as a motivating example for how to answer concrete questions in the face of noisy data. We will also discuss how newer statistics (known as sabermetrics) have been used to gain additional insights, and we will relate these ideas to other sports. Assignments will consist of weekly problem sets and a short final project. By taking this class, students will develop an understanding of key statistical concepts that will be useful for interpreting data from many fields.

Mind, Brain, and Information Writing and Research Quantitative Skills In this course, students are expected to spend at least six to eight hours a week of preparation and work outside of class time. This time includes reading, writing, research.