R or bayes for independent study?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the choice between taking a course in R or Bayesian statistics for an independent study in statistics. The participant, an undergraduate student, expresses a preference for Bayesian methods but is considering R due to a peer's need for programming experience. Recommendations emphasize the value of studying Bayesian statistics, particularly using R and WinBUGS, as it is a high-level language that is accessible for those with limited programming experience. Resources such as Kruschke's book on Bayesian methods are suggested for further learning.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of statistics
  • Familiarity with programming concepts
  • Knowledge of Bayesian statistics
  • Experience with R programming language (recommended but not mandatory)
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Bayesian statistics using Kruschke's book
  • Learn R programming through online courses or tutorials
  • Explore WinBUGS for Bayesian data analysis
  • Research procedural programming techniques to enhance R proficiency
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for undergraduate students in statistics, aspiring data scientists, and anyone interested in Bayesian methods and R programming for statistical analysis.

bennyska
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i'm an undergrad in stats, and next semester is my last. I'm doing an independent study next semester, and am unsure of what would be more beneficial for me: a class in R, or bayes. i would like to do bayes, and I'm decent on computers with limited programming experience, so I'm not too worried about picking up R as i go along, but that's based on zero experience with R. i will be doing grad school, and i figure i'll get experience with both of these there, so either one would work. there are a few books that combine the two, like kruschle's book, that i could do.
really the issue is there is someone else i'll be doing an independent study with, and she is not only NOT super hot with computers, she also needs a programming course to graduate, so she wants to do R. if we go through the same teacher, we'd have to do one together, but we could possibly go through different teachers.

anyway, anyone have an opinion?
thanks
 
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You mean bayesian statistics? If you have an opportunity to study bayesian methods, I would strongly recommend that you take advantage of it. R is a very high-level programming language; it will be very easy for you to get the hang of it by creating a few mock data sets and playing around with it.
 
I recommend you do the Bayesian course, especially if you use WinBUGS. My Bayesian course used R and WinBUGS in addition to Bayesian theory so it was good for me.

If you have done any kind of procedural programming before, R is not hard to learn.
 

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