Week 3: Probability and Random Variables

Overview

This week we dive into the foundations of probability theory and begin exploring random variables. Understanding probability is essential for statistical inferenceβ€”it provides the mathematical framework for quantifying uncertainty in biological and health sciences research.

We’ll begin with a motivating case study on disease screening, then build our understanding of probability from the ground up. We’ll explore how to calculate probabilities, understand independence vs. dependence, and work with conditional probabilities in medical contexts.

On Thursday, we will build on conditional probability, and explore Bayes’ Theorem and its critical applications in medical diagnostic testing. You’ll learn to calculate and interpret sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive valueβ€”essential concepts for understanding screening tests.

πŸ‘¨β€πŸ« Lecture Slides Tuesday

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πŸ‘¨β€πŸ« Lecture Slides Thursday

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