Apr 24

Math Across the Cannon Talk

Tue, April 24, 2018 • 7:00pm - 8:00pm (1h) • Weitz Cinema

Math and Stats Student Lecture
Understanding p-Values and the Controversy Surrounding Them
Time and Location:  3:00-3:30 pm Reception; 3:30-4:30 pm Talk at St. Olaf College (RNS 410)

Most researchers and journals rely heavily on p-values for determining whether results of a study are statistically significant, and if the study is worthy of publication. But recently p-values have come under attack, and one social science journal has gone as far as banning their use for papers submitted to the journal. These developments led the American Statistical Association (ASA) to release a statement in 2016 titled “Statement on Statistical Significance and P-values,” with six principles underlying the proper use and interpretation of p-values and statistical significance. What’s wrong with p-values? Should their use be abandoned? This talk explores what p-values really mean, some common misunderstandings about them, what the ASA’s statement said about them, and what steps statisticians and researchers can take to make sure p-values are not misused.

Public Lecture
How Basic Statistical Literacy Can Save You Money, and Maybe Even Safe Your Life!
Time and Location:  700-8:00 pm Talk; 8:00-8:30 pm Reception at Carleton College (Weitz Cinema)

A headline proclaims that coffee lovers live longer. Should you start drinking coffee? You test positive for a disease. How likely is it that you actually have the disease? Are there ways to increase your chance of winning the lottery? Should you buy an extended warranty? Should you pay the advance purchase, non-refundable cost for a hotel room, or wait and pay more when you arrive? All of these are questions that can be answered with a little understanding of statistics and probability. This talk will discuss these and other examples of how statistics and probability permeate our lives, and how a little knowledge can help us make better decisions.

 

Event Contact: Sue Jandro

Event Summary

Math Across the Cannon Talk
  • Intended For: General Public, Students, Faculty, Staff

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