The course "Foundations of Probability and Random Variables" introduces fundamental concepts in probability and random variables, essential for understanding computational methods in computer science and data science. Through five comprehensive modules, learners will explore combinatorial analysis, probability, conditional probability, and both discrete and continuous random variables. By mastering these topics, students will gain the ability to solve complex problems involving uncertainty, design probabilistic models, and apply these concepts in fields like machine learning, AI, and algorithm design.
Foundations of Probability and Random Variables
This course is part of Statistical Methods for Computer Science Specialization
Instructor: Ian McCulloh
Recommended experience
What you'll learn
Master combinatorial techniques, including permutations, combinations, and multinomial coefficients, to solve counting and probability problems.
Apply probability axioms, construct Venn diagrams, and calculate sample space sizes to evaluate probabilities in various scenarios.
Utilize Bayes' formula, the multiplication rule, and conditional probability to assess event relationships and solve real-world problems.
Analyze discrete and continuous random variables using probability density functions, cumulative distribution functions, and expected values.
Skills you'll gain
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October 2024
21 assignments
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There are 6 modules in this course
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to fundamental concepts in probability and statistics, focusing on counting principles, permutations, combinations, and multinomial coefficients. Students will explore probability axioms, conditional probabilities, and Bayes’s Formula while using Venn diagrams to visualize events. The course covers random variables, including discrete and continuous types, expected values, and various probability distributions. Practical applications in R programming and data analysis tools will enhance understanding through simulations and real-world problem-solving. By the end, students will be equipped to analyze and interpret statistical data effectively.
What's included
2 readings1 plugin
This module covers the usefulness of an effective method for counting the number of ways that things can occur. Many problems in probability theory can be solved simply by counting the number of different ways that a certain event can occur.
What's included
9 videos2 readings3 assignments1 ungraded lab
This module introduces the concept of the probability of an event and then shows how probabilities can be computed in certain situations.
What's included
9 videos3 readings4 assignments1 ungraded lab
This module explores one of the most important concepts in probability theory, that of conditional probability. The importance of this concept is twofold. First, we are often interested in calculating probabilities when some partial information concerning the result of an experiment is available; in such a situation, the desired probabilities are conditional. Second, even when no partial information is available, conditional probabilities can often be used to compute the desired probabilities more easily.
What's included
9 videos3 readings4 assignments1 ungraded lab
This module discusses the function of outcomes rather than the actual outcomes themselves. In particular, we examine random variables that can take on at most a countable number of possible values. We call these types of variables, discrete random variables.
What's included
9 videos4 readings5 assignments1 ungraded lab
This module extends the concept of random variables where the outcomes cannot be counted. We explore probability density functions, cumulative distribution functions, the normal distribution and other common distributions.
What's included
10 videos4 readings5 assignments1 ungraded lab
Instructor
Offered by
Recommended if you're interested in Probability and Statistics
Johns Hopkins University
Johns Hopkins University
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