This paper is from Session 5F: Assessing statistical reasoning and statistical thinking

which comes under Topic 5: Assessment in statistics education

Other papers under session 5F ... 5F1: Assessing student learning about statistical inference 5F2: Development of an instrument to assess statistical thinking

(Thursday 15th, 11:00-12:30)

Towards assessing understanding of prerequisite knowledge for sampling distributions

Presenter

• Michelle Sisto (International University of Monaco, Monaco)

Co-authors

• Tisha Hooks (Winona State University, United States)
• Michael Posner (Villanova University, United States)
• Dale Berger (Claremont Graduate University, United States)

Abstract

Sampling distributions play a vital role in understanding how statistical inferences are made, yet students often fail to achieve proficiency in this important topic. The goals of our project are to examine the literature on sampling distributions and concepts that may be prerequisite knowledge for sampling distributions - sampling, variability and distribution, develop an assessment tool that can be used in a timely fashion to provide instructors with feedback on the understanding and misconceptions that students have about sampling distributions and prerequisite concepts, and better understand misconceptions to improve the teaching and learning of basic statistics. We developed new and modified existing assessment items to study the relationship between comprehension of sampling distributions and mastery of each prerequisite area. Open ended questions were refined through a pilot study and we share our experiences in developing items.

Other papers under session 5F ... 5F1: Assessing student learning about statistical inference 5F2: Development of an instrument to assess statistical thinking