John Van

Math 1040
Reflection
As a result of this project, I have learn that statistics can be used in a variety of ways. It can be
used appropriately if follow specific principles, but on the other hand, it can be misuse to support a
specific claim. Statistics are supposed to make something easier to understand but when used in a
misleading fashion, it can trick the casual observer into believing something other than what the data
shows. One topic that Ive learn that stood out to me is the idea of correlation doesnt imply causation.
Many studies like to suggest the idea that certain behaviors are the source of a certain problem but in
reality there are many variables that may be affecting that problem.
The math skills that were applied in this project will impact other classes I plan on taking in the
future. I am majoring in exercise sport science and hoping one day Ill get in to med school, ultimately
becoming a doctor. The math skills applied in this project will help me determine whether certain
research or studies that I come across makes a valid argument or claim. Many studies on the internet
can be skewed to support a certain claim. People should consider those studies with an open mind,
especially if he or she do not know how the study is being conducted. I am most certain that I will use
graphs and charts in other classes and work beyond education. The ability to visually represent data
with accurate axis labels and an appropriate title is a skill that will forever serve me. Beyond that, five
number summaries with boxplots and using formulas for finding outliers will also help in future number
analysis. I can only assume that I will take more science and lab based classes in the future in which I will
need to analyze results anddue to errorsmay need to reject outliers to end up with better statistics.
Calculating the confidence intervals and performing a hypothesis tests to either support or
reject a claim are the most difficult part of this project. It is most consuming part of the project. I feel
that these concepts work best in analyzing statistical reports especially when the reports involve claims
and estimates. There are many experiments and lab work involve in my career field so I know it will be
useful. I hope to be able to read through a report, construct confidence intervals to see where a true

John Van
Math 1040
statistic may lie, and be able to test the claim the report is making to see if there is sufficient evidence
supporting it. The success of this project comes from carefully analyzing the data we are given and
interpret it in a way that other people can understand. Writing the interpretation was the hardest part
for me since English isnt my first language but I will continually work at it.
This project has helped me develop my problem solving skills. I dont get overwhelm as much
when seeing a huge problem. I now slowly digest each part of a problem and then work at it in small
steps. I didnt realize how long this assignment is until I started putting it all together. I feel accomplish
and relieve that the project is completed.
This project didnt change my view of real-worth math applications. I have always loved math at
a young age, but I didnt find its relevancy until high school. Math is a universal language, it is applied to
our life in a variety of ways. Its just no one really sit back and think about it. It is applied in our
electronic, buildings, roads, and many other systems. This project only further support my
understanding of how math is applied in the real world. Learning about statistics and probability this
semester reminds me of my high school teacher who applied math skills in the casinos of Las Vegas.
Now I wont elaborate on the story, but lets just say he will never step foot into a Las Vegas casino ever
again.