Final project

For inspiration and guidance, take a look at final projects from autumn 2014 and spring 2016.

The final project is a research project on the subject of your choosing. You may, for example, pose a research question and attempt to answer it via data analysis. You may alternatively research extensions of statistical techniques covered in the course. Students are encouraged to work in pairs on the final project. It has three components:


Abstract (5%) due Wednesday, May 22

You must submit a one-page (one-sided, not front and back) description of your research project a week before the paper itself is due. The description should address the following questions:
  • What is your research question, and why is it important?
  • What data will you use, and how will you procure them?
  • What methods will you use to answer your research question?
      Provide a detailed outline of your planned analysis.

Paper (25%) due Wednesday, May 29

The research paper may be a maximum of eight pages (i.e. four front and back). Papers shorter than six pages in length likely do not have the substance expected for this writeup. The paper should read like a scientific one, with an introduction and describing related work, data, methods, results and conclusions. However you are encouraged to exercise creativity in organizing the content of your paper.

Presentation (10%)

The class periods on June 3, June 5 and June 7, will be filled by student presentations of final projects. Each presentation should use slides and take about 20 minutes.