Fat Chance: Probability from the Ground Up

Course Description

"Fat Chance" is an engaging and comprehensive introductory course on probability and statistics, designed by HarvardX to provide a solid foundation for beginners or those seeking a refresher before diving into college-level statistics. This course takes a unique approach by prioritizing the development of mathematical thinking over rote memorization, making it accessible and enjoyable for learners from various backgrounds.

Through highly visual lessons and guided practice, students will explore the quantitative reasoning behind probability and statistics, tracing these concepts back to their roots in counting principles. The course is structured to gradually build your understanding, starting with basic counting skills and progressing to more complex probability problems and statistical concepts.

What Students Will Learn

• An increased appreciation for, and reduced fear of, basic probability and statistics
• Techniques for solving combinatorial counting problems
• Methods for tackling basic and advanced probability problems
• Introductory understanding of the normal distribution and its statistical applications
• Ability to recognize common fallacies in probability and misuses of statistics
• Development of a mathematical mode of thought

Prerequisites

The primary prerequisite for this course is high school algebra. Students should have a basic understanding of algebraic concepts and be comfortable with mathematical reasoning.

Course Coverage

• Basic and advanced counting techniques
• Fundamental probability concepts
• Expected value and its applications
• Conditional probability
• Bernoulli trials
• Introduction to statistics through expected value, variance, and normal distribution
• Practical applications of probability and statistics in real-world scenarios
• Common fallacies and misunderstandings in probability and statistics

Who This Course Is For

• Students new to the study of probability and statistics
• Individuals seeking a refresher before enrolling in a college-level statistics course
• Professionals looking to enhance their quantitative reasoning skills
• Anyone interested in developing a deeper understanding of probability and its applications in everyday life

Real-World Applications

• Making informed decisions based on statistical data
• Evaluating risks and opportunities in business and finance
• Analyzing scientific research and experimental results
• Understanding and interpreting polls and surveys
• Recognizing and avoiding common probabilistic fallacies in everyday situations
• Applying probability concepts to games, sports, and other recreational activities
• Enhancing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities across various disciplines

Syllabus