ICOTS8: Scientific Programme: Paper 1C1

This paper is from Session 1C: Evidence-based management

Full topic list

which comes under Topic 1: Data and context in statistics education: towards an evidence-based society

(Monday 12th, 14:00-16:00)

Diagnosis, provision and assessment of quantitative skills for managers in local government

Presenter

Shirley Coleman (University of Newcastle, United Kingdom)

Co-author

Richard Browne (Newcastle University, United Kingdom)

Abstract

Basic numerical and graphical skills give enormous returns and yet are sorely lacking in otherwise highly skilled personnel. Many local government managers find themselves unable to understand or utilise basic tools, such as aggregated indices, run charts, bar charts and histograms. ISRU has developed a sensitive and innovative training programme for Local Government Organisations (LGOs). It is presented as skills updating to avoid confrontation and includes relevant computing (spreadsheet) skills. The programme is aligned to competences recognised for LGOs and this encourages take-up by managers. The need for improved mathematical skills links sector skills councils, improvement charities and education. The Mathematics in Education and Industry (MEI) charity has developed a diagnostic tool which will be piloted in the LGO arena. Training programmes work best with realistic data and examples placed in context. Feedback is vital for continuous improvement and has played a significant role in the development of the programme.