Innocent until proven guilty?  Guilty until proven innocent?  These are the pillar and post of classical hypothesis testing - but what about cases where the evidence is consistent with either guilty or innocent?  In decision-oriented analysis like environmental science (toxic until proven non-toxic?  non-toxic until proven toxic?), investigators need more than the limited framework of classical statistics.  Bayesian methods, by contrast, are aimed at optimizing decisions in light of costs and benefits.  This approach is covered in Paul Black’s online course: “Bayesian Environmental Statistics” (March 23 – April 20).  Some related Bayesian and environmental courses are noted in the list below:

Feb 24:  Environmental Sampling
Feb 24:  Introduction to Bayesian Statistics
Mar 9:   Introduction to Bayesian Computing and Techniques
Mar 23:  Bayesian Environmental Statistics (more below)
Apr 27:  Bayesian Regression Modeling via MCMC Techniques

“Ecological and Environmental Sampling” covers sampling methods and analyses for studying the density and abundance of animals and plants. It starts with classic methods (simple random sampling, systematic sampling, stratified sampling and more), and goes on to cover methods for estimating population sizes: adaptive sampling, mark recapture, line transects, more. 

In “Bayesian Environmental Statistics,” participants will learn to incorporate knowledge or estimates of the "state of the world," as well as the costs and benefits of alternative actions (or inaction), via Bayesian analysis.  Note:  You'll need "Introduction to Bayesian Statistics" first.  "Introduction to Bayesian Statistics" and "Bayesian Regression Modeling via MCMC Techniques" are needed for those interested in implementation of Bayesian analytics.

Paul Black, the instructor for “Bayesian Environmental Statistics,” is a leading consultant in the area of Bayesian methods for environmental decision-making, with clients in both the private sector and in government, including regulatory agencies such as the US Environmental Protection Agency.

Bryan Manly, a consultant with Western EcoSystem Technology, Inc. in Cheyenne, Wyoming, is the author of "Statistics for Environmental Science and Management," "The Statistics of Natural Selection on Animal Populations," "Resource Selection by Animals," and many other books and articles. 

Each course takes place online at statistics.com in a series of 4 weekly lessons and assignments. Participate at your own convenience; there are no set times when you are required to be online.  Participants can ask questions and exchange comments with the instructors via a private discussion board throughout the period of the course.

Details: 
hhttp://bit.ly/envirostats-all
ttp://bit.ly/envirobayes-all

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