This paper is from Session 3E: Professional development of statistics instructors

which comes under Topic 3: Education and development of staff who teach statistics

Project-SET materials for the teaching and learning of sampling variability and regression

Presenter

• Ann Watkins (California State University, Northridge, United States)

Co-authors

• Anna Bargagliotti (Loyola Marymount University, United States)
• Celia Anderson (University of Memphis, United States)
• Christine Franklin (University of Georgia, United States)
• John Haddock (University of Memphis, United States)
• Michelle Everson (University of Minnesota, United States)
• Randall Groth (Salisbury University, United States)
• Robert Gould (University of California, Los Angeles, United States)
• Stephanie Casey (Eastern Michigan University, United States)

Abstract

To address the increased need for statistical literacy across the world, high quality statistical preparation of teachers is needed. Project-SET is an NSF funded project aimed at developing materials to prepare secondary teachers to teach statistics. In this paper, we present results from a professional development (PD) project designed to test whether the materials are effective in preparing teachers to teach sampling variability and regression. Eleven teachers were recruited to take a 45-hour PD that utilized the materials. Participants took the Comprehensive Assessment of Outcomes in Statistics (CAOS) as a pre- and post-test. Results indicate that Project-SET materials were effective in increasing teacher scores. PD participants were also given open-ended assessments. Teacher answers revealed that misunderstandings were present in their thinking.