Data Analysis & Experimental Methods for Civil and Environmental Engineering

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding

Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

• Propose an appropriate statistical model for a given dataset and interpret the goodness of fit.
• Develop an appropriate study design for an engineering case study taking into account practical limitations.
• Apply knowledge of statistical analysis to assess a hypothesis by selecting appropriate statistical tests and by correctly interpreting the results of these tests.

Subject Specific Practical Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Critically assess the fit of statistical models including linear, logistic and autoregression models.
• Critically analyse and reflect upon the appropriateness of parametric and non-parametric inference.

Transferable and Generic Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Use creativity and innovation in problem solving
• Compose a research paper in engineering
• Display initiative and personal responsibility within a team
• Communicate project’s output both orally and in writing effectively

Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Formulate suitable research questions
• Apply best practice in data management, anonymization and archiving, in line with current ethical considerations.
• Critically evaluate statistical analysis

The course will endeavour to cover the following topics:

(1) Study design

(2) Descriptive and exploratory data analysis

(3) Hypothesis testing

(4) Statistical methods for independent data, e.g., multiple linear regression and logistic regression

(5) Statistical methods for dependent data, e.g., time series analysis

(6) Data management, copyright, anonymization and archiving

• In person and online recorded lectures introduce the theory and techniques
• Computer practical sessions introduce statistical software
• Tutorial sessions are available throughout the module for any students wanting additional support
• Practical coursework enables students to follow the whole process through from initial question to formal analysis and report presentation

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

Repeat

An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.