The effects of different choices of response variable are explored. Ecological sampling methods for spatial patterns are considered. Sampling techniques, which involve random placings of a quadrat on soil, are explored. The Poisson probability model is used for analysis. Students are invited to investigate this with the aid of regression models.
Emphasis is placed on the modelling cycle and particularly on model validation.
Probability Models Issues of pollution control in a pharmaceutical company raise problems of simple probability distributions and modelling. Problems may be selected from a menu of six as directed by the tutor. Distributions include Binomial, Poisson and Normal. Emphasis is on the process of modelling rather than on a tutorial in probability. A Visual Approach Data are available on annual rainfall over 50 years at different locations across the Pennines.