This manipulation is most efficiently performed using a computer. In conjunction with the College's program in computing, the Biology Department will require you to perform most exercises using a computer, and substantial use of computing, for writing as well as for the manipulation of data, takes place in elective courses. In designing experiments and interpreting the resulting data, biologists often make use of statistical analysis. Biological material is inherently variable and in measuring any characteristic of a group of organisms or cells we are dealing with a sample of a larger population of all such organisms or cells. By selecting this group randomly, we hope to measure the value of a representative sample and thereby to obtain a good estimate of the characteristic in the whole population.
Statistical analysis is an extremely valuable tool when used properly.
It is also useful in the design of experiments, suggesting which data would most usefully answer the question asked. The Biology Department believes that a familiarity with statistical analysis is of service, not only in the interpretation of data gathered during experimental work, but also in the understanding of information in our increasingly numeric society. We require Biology majors to complete Mat. 116, or Bio. The statistics requirement reflects our view that this subject is basic both to scientific research and to the evaluation of the significance of research by others.