Outline

Overview

This unit builds on introductory statistics units and is targeted towards students in the life and environmental sciences. It consists of two parts and presents the statistical methods that students need to know for further study and their future careers, using applied examples from agriculture, ecology and environmental science. In the first part the focus is on experimental design. Students will learn how to analyse and interpret datasets collected from designs with more than two treatment levels, multiple factors and different blocking designs. The second part focuses on finding patterns in data using multiple regression and multivariate methods. Part two provides the foundation for the analysis of big data and machine learning. In the practicals the emphasis is on analysing and interpreting real datasets using the statistical software package R. A key feature of the unit is using R to develop coding skills that have become essential in science for processing and analysing datasets of ever-increasing size.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Life and Environmental Sciences Academic Operations
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	[6 credit points from (ENVX1001 or ENVX1002 or BIOM1003 or MATH1011 or MATH1015 or DATA1001 or DATA1901)] or [3 credit points from (MATH1XX1 or MATH1906 or MATH1XX3 or MATH1907) and an additional 3 credit points from (MATH1XX5)]
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	Yes

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Aaron Greenville, aaron.greenville@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 March 2026

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Written exam	Final exam Timed MCQ + Short answer exam	45%	Formal exam period	2 hours	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Early Feedback Task Online canvas quiz #earlyfeedbacktask	1%	Week 03	-	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Data analysis	Project 1: Describing data Individual written report	10%	Week 05 Due date: 27 Mar 2026 at 17:20	-	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Experimental design	Project 2: Analysing experimental data Individual written report	20%	Week 10 Due date: 08 May 2026 at 17:20	-	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Presentation	Project 3: Presentation - Topics 7-12 Powerpoint Audio presentation + individual reflection	20%	Week 13	-	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Online quizzes Quizzes are completed in Canvas	4%	Weekly	-	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= hurdle task ? = group assignment ? = early feedback task ?

Early feedback task

This unit includes an early feedback task, designed to give you feedback prior to the census date for this unit. Details are provided in the Canvas site and your result will be recorded in your Marks page. It is important that you actively engage with this task so that the University can support you to be successful in this unit.

Assessment summary

Topics 1-6: There will be 2 individual report. The report details will be released via Canvas.
Topics 7-12: There will be a group presentation involving a modelling exercise integrating all Topics in Module 2. Groups will collect datasets.The report details will be released via Canvas
Online quizzes: There will be weekly online multiple choice quizzes that will be assessed during the semester. The questions will be taken from the output in the practical classes and the analysis of example datasets. The questions should be seen as practice for the final exam and multiple attempts will be allowed. They will be released on Friday at 5pm and be due by the following Wednesday 11pm. Two hours will be given to complete the online quizzes.
Final exam: will cover key concepts learnt throughout semester. Note: This assessment is compulsory and failure to attend, attempt, or submit will result in the award of an AF grade. If a second replacement exam is required, this exam may be delivered via an alternative assessment method, such as a viva voce (oral exam). The alternative assessment will meet the same learning outcomes as the original exam. The format of the alternative assessment will be determined by the unit coordinator. The final exam is a hurdle task and a results < 40% will be a fail grade.

Detailed information for each assessment can be found on Canvas.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100	Able to write a coherent and flowing report in good English. Using a variety of viewpoints to argue the process for identifying the problem. Excellent discussion of management strategies to manage this problem. References are used wisely and the student shows an ability to critique the literature. Sources included at least three refereed journal articles and these were presented in the correct format in the reference list and using the correct in text citation.
Distinction	75 - 84	Able to write a coherent report in good English. Presented at least two points of view to argue the process for identifying the problem. Good discussion of management strategies to manage this problem. Sources included at least three refereed journal articles and these were presented in the correct format in the reference list and using the correct in text citation.
Credit	65 - 74	Presented a report in good English. Presented at least two points of view to argue the process for identifying the problem. Reasonable discussion of management strategies to manage this problem. Sources included at least two refereed journal articles and these were presented in the correct format in the reference list and using the correct in text citation.
Pass	50 - 64	Presented and report in good English that defined the problem and came to a recommendation. Sources included two refereed journal articles, in a reference list.
Fail	0 - 49	When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard. Presented a report that did not address the problem or was poorly constructed and grammatically incorrect. Did not provide any recommendations. Did not use any refereed journal papers.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Week 01	Introduction	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 01	Introduction	Practical (3 hr)
Week 02	Sampling designs	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 02	Sampling designs	Practical (3 hr)
Week 03	1-way ANOVA	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 03	1-way ANOVA	Practical (3 hr)
Week 04	Residual diagnostics & post hoc tests	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 04	Residual diagnostics & post hoc tests	Practical (3 hr)
Week 05	Experimental design	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 05	Experimental design	Practical (3 hr)
Week 06	ANOVA with blocking	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 06	ANOVA with blocking	Practical (3 hr)
Week 07	Regression modelling	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 07	Regression modelling	Practical (3 hr)
Week 08	Regression model development	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 08	Regression model development	Practical (3 hr)
Week 09	Regression model assessment	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 09	Regression model assessment	Practical (3 hr)
Week 10	Principle component analysis	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 10	Principle component analysis	Practical (3 hr)
Week 11	Clustering	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 11	Clustering	Practical (3 hr)
Week 12	Multidimensional scaling	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 12	Multidimensional scaling	Practical (3 hr)
Week 13	Revision	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 13	Revision	Practical (3 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Under the Faculty of Science Resolutions (Policy):

(1) Students are expected to attend at least 80% of timetabled activities as defined in the unit of study outline, unless granted exemption by the Associate Dean.

(2) A student may fail a unit of study because of inadequate attendance

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

Outcomes
Graduate qualities

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. demonstrate proficiency in designing sample schemes and analysing data from them using using R
LO2. describe and identify the basic features of an experimental design; replicate, treatment structure and blocking structure
LO3. demonstrate proficiency in the use or the statistical programming language R to apply an ANOVA and fit regression models to experimental data
LO4. demonstrate proficiency in the use or the statistical programming language R to use multivariate methods to find patterns in data
LO5. interpret the output and understand conceptually how its derived of a regression, ANOVA and multivariate analysis that have been calculated by R
LO6. write statistical and modelling results as part of a scientific report
LO7. appraise the validity of statistical analyses used publications.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

Development of new in-person tutorials to aid students.

Additional information

Work, health and safety

We are governed by the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 and Codes of Practice. Penalties for non-compliance have increased. Everyone has a responsibility for health and safety at work. The University’s Work Health and Safety policy explains the responsibilities and expectations of workers and others, and the procedures for managing WHS risks associated with University activities.

General Laboratory Safety Rules

No eating or drinking is allowed in any laboratory under any circumstances
Follow safety instructions in your manual and posted in laboratories
In case of fire, follow instructions posted outside the laboratory door

Disclaimer

Important: the University of Sydney regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

ENVX2001: Applied Statistical Methods

Semester 1, 2026 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links