Statistics and Sensory Methods

- Basic terms and sizes: population and range, average, median, variance, standard deviation - Graphic representations and presentation of statistical data - Probability calculation: quantitative, conditional probability, independence and combinatorics - Stochastic models notation, calculation of probability, expectation and variance of discrete and continuous models - Probability Distributions: Theory and Practical Use of the Binomic and Hypergeometric Model, Poisson Distribution, Normal Distribution and Central Limit Theorem - Statistical methods: determination of point estimators and confidence intervals and implementation of hypothesis testing with p-values in known models - Comparison of groups with t-tests with formulas and on PC - Implementation of Chi-squared test and variance analysis on PC - Analysis of correlation and linear regression - The sensory senses - Sensory science as an analytical method (from planning to final results) - Sensory methods with emphasis on discrimination tests

After completing the course, the candidate is expected to have the following learning outcomes regarding:

KNOWLEDGE: The candidate has knowledge of basic concepts and theory in probability calculations and statistical inference (K1). The candidate can calculate statistical goals for sample data and produce results in tables and with graphics (K2). The candidate can use linear regression and evaluate the results of the regression analysis (K3). The candidate can account for common probability models and calculate probability of events (K4). The candidate can calculate confidence intervals and perform hypothesis tests on the basis of collected data (K5). The candidate can describe the senses as a sensory instrument and know what to emphasize as an assessor and as a panel leader when performing a sensory test (K6). The candidate has knowledge of which sensory issues can be solved using the discrimination tests triangular test, paired comparison test and ranking test (K7). The candidate can describe practical implementation and outcome management for the discrimination tests triangular test, paired comparison test and ranking test (K8).

SKILLS: The candidate is able to interpret the results of studies presented with confidence intervals and p-values from hypothesis tests (F1). The candidate can use computer programs for statistical calculations and analyzes (F2). The candidate is able to participate as an assessor in a semi-trained sensory panel (F3).

GENERAL COMPETENCE: The candidate has basic knowledge to plan and execute a project work that involves sensory analysis where statistical understanding is also important (G1).

Lectures (60 h), guided theoretical exercises (34 h) compulsory laboratory exercises (6 h) and self-study (105 h).