Analysis of GEOG471 Performance

A comparative analysis of Midterm 1 for GEOG471, October 2011

Midterm 1 Results

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

1 3 5 7 9 11 13 15 17 19 21 23 25 27 29 31 33

Midterm 1: Grades out of 60 possible points

Midterm 1

Midterm 1 Analysis: Grade vs Time Taken

Based on this model, what is a good strategy? Quantify your returns.

Midterm 1 Analysis: Grade vs Time Taken

Ho: There is no statistically significant relationship between grades achieved and time taken

HA: There is a statistically significant relationship between grades achieved and time taken

P-value: 0.019602

because p < α

reject Ho

HA: There is a statistically significant relationship between grades achieved and time taken. If a student spends no time on the test (x=0), the expected grade is 4.811 points (Intercept). For each additional minute spent, the grade increases by 0.466 points.

Midterm 1 Analysis: Grade vs Time Taken

Q: If a student aims to achieve 50 points out of 60, how much time should she expect to take?

A: Use the regression model because it demonstrates a statistically significant relationship between grades achieved and time taken.Substitute regression model data into the general equation.

y = ax + b50 = 0.4667x + 4.8110.4667x = 45.119x = (45.119/0.4667)x = 96.67

A: It would take the student 96.67 minutes to achieve a grade of 50 points.

Midterm 1 Analysis: Grade vs Time Taken

Q: If the examination is time-constrained to 50 minutes, what is the average expected grade?

A: Use the regression model because it demonstrates a statistically significant relationship between grades achieved and time taken.Substitute regression model data into the general equation.

y = ax + by = (0.4667 * 50) + 4.811y = 23.335 + 4.811x = 28.146

A: The students would achieve a grade of 28.146 points if the examination was limited to 50 minutes.

Midterm 1 Analysis: Fall 2011 vs Previous Classes

The Letter of Recommendation Issue

Email from Sep 30th 2011.

“Good morning Professor Bailey, my name is [Student X] and I took your GEOG course. I remember back in Fall 2009, when I took your course, that you had mentioned that you would be willing to write a letter of recommendation for anyone who received a B or higher.  Hopefully, that policy still stands, as I am applying to the Master's of City and Regional Planning program at the [Great State] University.  I will let you know more details as the process continues, but I was wondering if you might have the time to write me a letter of recommendation.  Thank you in advance and I hope all is well.”

The Letter of Recommendation Issue

Dear Sir/Madam, Student X took the GEOG471 class in Fall 2009. I was the instructor for this class. As you see from his transcript, he obtained an A grade. He was the best student in the class and obtained an overall grade of 94.5 percent. He worked hard, attended class regularly and delivered good assignments and tests. He participated regularly and his assignments were on-time.

I give this student my highest recommendation for employment at your company.

Yours truly,

Professor Y.