A report (click here to download a copy) just released by the Group of Eight (Go8) Australian universities concludes that we're going backwards with respect to numeracy.
Environmetrics is a
relatively new discipline which aims to bring together contemporary and
classical statistical methodologies with enhanced mathematical and computer
modelling techniques for robust quantitative environmental monitoring,
sampling, and assessment. Environmetrics is not simply a 'greening' of existing
statistical methodologies; indeed the raison d'etre for environmetrics is
recognition of the limitations of 'classical' statistical techniques when
applied to problems associated with natural resource management.
Why
these courses? As part of its on-going commitment to assist
and support researchers in Natural Resource Management (NRM),
Environmetrics Australia offers a number of
short-courses in contemporary statistical methods. These courses have been
designed to provide a 'hands-on' approach to the effective design,
implementation, and analysis of environmental studies. Particular emphasis is
given to using statistical methods that are 'fit-for-purpose', robust, and
accessible to users having minimal formal training in statistics.
Who should attend?
Natural Resource Managers;
Scientists;
Researchers and technicians working in the
area of natural resource management;
Anyone with an interest in contemporary
statistical methods for environmental monitoring, sampling and assessment.
What pre-requsities do I need?
Very few other than basic computer skills and
some familiarity with the language and principles of elementary statistical
design and analysis. Generally, anyone having done an introductory statistics
course as part of an undergraduate degree will be well equipped for this
short-course. More advanced courses will assume a higher level of statistical
knowledge gained either through formal training elsewhere or completion of one
of our introductory courses.
Who are the instructors?
Our instructors are highly qualified
statisticians and/or quantitative ecologists/biologists. We are acutely aware
of the general perception that statistics is a difficult subject and hard to
understand. Our instructors have been carefully selected for their ability to
explain statistical concepts in clear, concise language while avoiding tedious
mathematical arguments. Our courses are built on a philosophy of 'learning by doing'
and accordingly considerable time is devoted to computer-based analysis.
