This paper is from Session 7B: ISLP past and now

which comes under Topic 7: Statistical literacy in the wider society

Paper 7B2 (Monday 9th, 14:00-15:30)

History of the Statistical Graphs Competition in Japan and its Role in Statistical Literacy Developments

Presenter

• Kazunori Yamaguchi (Rikkyo University, Japan)

Co-author

• Michiko Watanabe (Keio University, Japan)

Abstract

The statistical graphs competition in Japan has a long history. This competition is nationwide and all people can apply to the competition. Recently it has six categories, from the first and second year elementary school students to adults. In 2016, the number of applicants was 26,284. The competition has two-stage evaluations, prefecture-level and national-level competitions. Each prefecture has a prefecture-level statistical graphs competition. These competitions are supported by local government statistical offices. The statistical graphs competition in Japan has an important role in developing literacy and understanding of statistics by people. In this paper, the history and structure of this competition, its role in statistical education, and its expected future will be presented.