BA 275 Quantitative Business Methods

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BA 275 Quantitative Business Methods

Spring 2007

Instructor:	Jim Moran
Office:	Bexell 334
Office Phone:	737-8871
E-mail:	moranj@bus.orst.edu
Office Hours:	Tues 12-1 Weds 1-2 Thur 1-2 (and by appointment)

Course Description

Management decision processes utilizing statistical methods, use and application of probability concepts, sampling procedures, statistical estimation, and regression to the analysis and solution of such business problems as income and cost estimation, sales forecasting, performance evaluation, inventory analysis, and quality control.

Course Objectives

This course teaches quantitative methods used in data analysis and business decision making. Topics covered include: descriptive statistics, correlation and regression, hypothesis testing, statistical process control, and forecasting. Business applications of these techniques are emphasized. Students in this course will acquire expertise in computer-based methods for data analysis and decision making, through computer analysis of business datasets. Prerequisite: Math 245 (probability, probability distributions, etc.) and sophomore standing.

Learning Outcomes:

Learning Resources

This course is based on classroom lectures, supplemented with a set of CD video tutorials (Upgrade Study Pack—see below). The conduct of the course includes: the CD tutorials; lectures w/ class notes (ppts); daily help sessions; weekly quizzes; midterm exams; a data analysis report; and a final exam.

Rounded Rectangular Callout: Every Class:
Bring the text & a calculator. The student is expected to:

· Review the CD video tutorials, complete the self-assessment for each assigned lesson.

· Complete the textbook reading and problem assignment.

· Attend lectures during the regularly scheduled class time and weekly help sessions when needed.

· Develop appropriate StatGraphics skill level.

The video tutorials are extremely helpful, instructive, and complete. It is required that you complete all the assigned video tutorial lessons. The second class day of each week is a lecture presentation for those who feel more comfortable with that format. But completion of the tutorial lessons is very important in order to completely cover the material.

Weekly Schedule

ü First Class Meeting: Questions, discussion, StatGraphics demo, lecture, and weekly quiz (or midterm).

ü Second Class Meeting: Lecture on current week’s material and help session.

Text

ü Moore, McCabe, Duckworth, & Sclove, The Practice of Business Statistics, Freeman (required).

ü Upgrade Study Pack, Freeman (required).

ü Excel-formatted Data Files for assigned problems are on the Textbook CD.

Classroom & Study Materials

All of the course materials (syllabus, course packet, announcements, etc.) are available on the campus
Blackboard System. è https://my.oregonstate.edu

StatGraphics

Upon completion of this course, students will understand and be able to use STATGRAPHICS CENTURION XV to analyze business, economic and financial data with various statistical tools. The software is available on all PC’s in the COB Computer Lab, Bexell basement; or you can obtain a free copy to install on your personal PC from: a) the OSUware 2007 CD which is available in Milne Computer Center and the Valley Library; or b) a download from this siteè http://tss.oregonstate.edu/softdist/StatGraphics/downloads/index.shtml

Examinations & Grading:

There will be six weekly quizzes (approx 60 minutes each), two midterms (1:45), and a final (1:50). No alternate test times are scheduled for any of the exams. Bring a calculator (communication devices not allowed) to all tests (and be sure to use a pencil!). All tests are closed book, no notes, etc. They will cover material in the textbook, lectures, problems, and the video tutorials.

Approximate points for final grade & grade breakdown:

Weekly Quizzes (6) (90)

Mid-Terms (2) (200)

Miscellaneous (15)

Final (130)

435

92%

<60

Exams, Schedules, & Attendance

· Weekly Quiz: No make-up quiz will be given for any reason but, approximately one quiz score will be eliminated from the required total (which is listed in the table above).

· Midterm Exams and Final Exam: No make-up exams or quizzes will be given. Students will receive zero points unless: there are extreme circumstances; the instructor is notified in advance; and an acceptable written excuse or official verification is presented prior to rescheduling. There is no alternate scheduled time for the final exam.

· No communication devices of any type are allowed in the classroom during exams/quizzes.

Important Matters

· Students with Disabilities
Accommodations are collaborative efforts between students, faculty and Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD). Students with accommodations approved through SSD are responsible for contacting the faculty member in charge of the course prior to or during the first week of the term to discuss accommodations. Students who believe they are eligible for accommodations but who have not yet obtained approval through SSD should contact SSD immediately at 737-4098.

· Student Conduct
Be sure to review the university policy academic issues and student conduct è http://oregonstate.edu/admin/stucon/achon.htm

Note: If you have not had your COB picture taken or if it is “out-dated”, be sure to have it taken by the COB electronic photo staff, before the end of the first week of classes. They are located in the COB Computer Lab, basement of Bexell Hall.

IMPORTANT NOTE: This syllabus is a guide, not a contract, and therefore may be changed as necessary. If changes are made, I will announce and discuss them in class.