Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need to install R and RStudio?

A: No! We use Binder, a cloud-based environment that runs R in your browser. No software installation is required. Just click the Binder link and start coding immediately.

Q: What if Binder doesn't work on my device?

A: Binder works on any device with a modern web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge). If you have issues:

• Try refreshing the page
• Clear your browser cache
• Try a different browser
• Contact the TA for help: mnarimani@ucdavis.edu

Q: Do I need prior programming experience?

A: No prior programming experience is required. We start with the basics of R programming and gradually build up your skills throughout the course.

Q: How do I save my work in Binder?

A: Always download your work! Binder environments are temporary. Use File → Download to save your .ipynb files and File → Save and Export → HTML for submission.

Q: How should I submit my assignments?

A: Submit two files to Canvas:

1. HTML file: Your formatted assignment with outputs (File → Save and Export → HTML)
2. .ipynb file: Your notebook code as backup (File → Download)

Q: What's the grading breakdown?

A: Course grading (450 total points):

• Mid-term Exam: 100 points (22.2%)
• Weekly Assignments: 200 points (44.4%) - 10 assignments worth 20 points each
• Final Exam: 150 points (33.3%)

Q: Are assignments individual or group work?

A: All assignments must be completed individually. No group submissions are allowed. You may discuss concepts with classmates, but all submitted work must be your own.

Q: When are the exams?

A:

• Mid-term: October 31 (Friday), 5:10 PM
• Final: December 11 (Thursday), 1:00 PM
• Both exams are online and open-book, but AI tools are not permitted

Q: My Binder environment won't load. What should I do?

A: If Binder is taking too long to load:

• Wait 2-5 minutes - initial loading can be slow
• Try refreshing the page
• Check your internet connection
• Try again later if servers are busy

Q: I lost my work in Binder. Can I recover it?

A: Unfortunately, no. Binder environments are temporary and clear when closed. Always download your work before closing Binder. Save frequently during long sessions.

Q: Can I use my phone or tablet for assignments?

A: While Binder works on mobile devices, we strongly recommend using a computer with a full keyboard for coding assignments. The mobile experience is not optimal for programming.

Q: Where can I get help with R code?

A: Multiple support options:

• TA Office Hours: Thursdays 10 AM - 12 PM (Zoom)
• Built-in Help: Use ?function_name in R
• Canvas Discussion: Post questions on course forum
• Email TA: mnarimani@ucdavis.edu

Q: Do I need to buy a textbook?

A: No textbook is required! All necessary materials are provided through the course website and Binder notebooks. Optional supplementary books are listed in the syllabus.

Q: Will R programming be on the exams?

A: No. While you'll use R for assignments, the mid-term and final exams focus on statistical concepts and interpretation, not programming.

Q: What topics does the course cover?

A: 10 weeks covering:

• Introduction to Statistics
• Data Organization and Presentation
• Probability
• Probability Distributions
• Sampling and Sampling Distributions
• Estimation
• Hypothesis Testing
• ANOVA
• Correlation and Regression

Q: How does the final exam work?

A: The final exam:

• Covers all course material
• ~60% focuses on content after the mid-term
• Online and open-book format
• No AI tools permitted

Q: Who should I contact for help?

A: Contact hierarchy:

Q: What should I bring to office hours?

A: Come prepared with:

• Specific questions about concepts or assignments
• Your code and error messages (if applicable)
• What you've already tried
• Your downloaded notebook files

Q: Can I get extensions on assignments?

A: Extensions may be granted for documented emergencies or health issues. Contact the instructor as soon as possible. Regular late submissions may result in point deductions.

Q: How should I approach learning statistics?

A: Effective strategies:

• Practice regularly: Work through examples in Binder
• Focus on concepts: Understand why, not just how
• Use real data: Apply methods to agricultural examples
• Ask questions: Use office hours and discussion forums
• Form study groups: Discuss concepts with classmates

Q: How much time should I spend on this course?

A: Plan for about 6-8 hours per week outside of class:

• Weekly assignments: 3-4 hours
• Reading and review: 2-3 hours
• Exam preparation: 1-2 hours

Q: What if I'm struggling with the material?

A: Don't wait - get help early:

• Attend TA office hours regularly
• Use Canvas discussion forums
• Form study groups with classmates
• Visit UC Davis Learning Skills Center
• Contact instructor if you need additional support

Q: What's the attendance policy?

A: While attendance isn't directly graded, in-class activities and participation contribute to learning. Lecture recordings are available for review.

Q: Can the syllabus change during the quarter?

A: Yes, the syllabus is flexible and may be adjusted to accommodate students' learning pace. Major changes will be announced in class and on Canvas.

Q: What about academic integrity?

A: All work must be your own. You may discuss concepts with classmates, but copying code or answers is academic dishonesty. AI tools are not permitted on exams.

Q: Are there accommodations for students with disabilities?

A: Yes. Students with documented disabilities should contact the Student Disability Center and provide accommodation letters to the instructor. Exam durations will be adjusted based on SDC letters.