Students will learn the art and science of asking and answering quantitative questions about the human condition, within and between cultures. In this class, we will turn numbers into meaningful data through the application of rational and critical thinking and basic mathematical skills. We will collect, analyze, and interpret data, draw conclusions, and solve problems. By learning to rigorously ask and answer questions and to critically analyze current issues, we will gain appreciation of the value of quantitative reasoning for making decisions in our daily lives.
Athena Title
Art and Science of Questions
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student Learning Outcomes
Students will learn to apply arithmetical and statistical methods, concepts, and reasoning to make and assess clear arguments relevant to contemporary social issues.
Students will learn to interpret graphs, tables, and schematics, and draw inferences.
Students will learn to collect and organize quantitative social data from online sources.
Students will learn to illustrate adaptable reasoning and make judgments of quantitative problems to determine reasonableness, identify alternatives, and select optimal results.
Topical Outline
Logic and Problem Solving: Common fallacies in the media age; propositions and truth values; types of arguments
Data Interpretation and Representation: Information in different mathematical forms (e.g., equations, graphs, diagrams, tables, words) and converting information into these forms
Statistics: Numerically describe data, calculate measures of variance and statistical inference
Probabilities: Determine probabilities, probability distributions, and do risk assessments
Building Models: Exponential and linear growth, write and use linear functions
Data and Assumptions: Formulate questions, collect, and organize data; assumptions in estimation, modeling, and data analysis
Application and Analyses: Drawing appropriate conclusions based on quantitative data analysis
Communication: Express quantitative evidence in support of an argument; use of evidence, formatting, presentation
General Education Core
CORE III: Quantitative Reasoning
Institutional Competencies
Analytical Thinking
The ability to reason, interpret, analyze, and solve problems from a wide array of authentic contexts.
Critical Thinking
The ability to pursue and comprehensively evaluate information before accepting or establishing a conclusion, decision, or action.
