This paper is from Session 8D: New Methods in the Age of Big Data
which comes under Topic 8: New approaches to research in statistics education
Paper 8D1 (Thursday 12th, 16:00-17:30)
Finding meaning in a multivariable world: A conceptual approach to an algebra-based second course in statistics
Presenter
- Karen McGaughey (California Polytechnic State University, United States)
Co-authors
- Beth Chance (Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, United States)
- Jill VanderStoep (Hope College, United States)
- Nathan Tintle (Dordt College, United States)
- Soma Roy (California Polytechnic State University, United States)
- Todd Swanson (Hope College, United States)
Abstract
While the teaching of the first course in statistics has improved dramatically in recent years, there has been less focus on a similarly conceptual-based second course aimed at non-majors. We present a curriculum for the second course, designed to expand statistical literacy across disciplines, which focuses on conceptual understanding of multivariable relationships through data visualization, study design, the role of confounding variables, reduction of unexplained variation, and simulation-based inference, rather than the mathematically based discourse often used in the second course. Our curriculum uses a student-centered pedagogical approach, utilizing guided-discovery activities based on real-world case studies, facilitated by student-focused technology tools. Highlights of the curriculum, the development process, initial thoughts from the developers and pilot testers, and feedback from students will be shared.