This paper is from Session 9A: New paradigms in teaching statistics through technology

which comes under Topic 9: Technology in statistics education

Other papers under session 9A ... 9A2: Learning from the statistician’s lab notebook 9A3: Pupils reasoning with information and misinformation

(Monday 12th, 11:00-12:30)

Learning to apply statistics using a virtual environment

Presenter

• Stefan Steiner (University of Waterloo, Canada)

Co-author

• R Jock MacKay (University of Waterloo, Canada)

Abstract

We have designed a virtual environment, a manufacturing process that needs improvement, where we challenge students to come up with ideas for, design, execute and analyze a wide variety of studies. The motivation for performing these studies is easily understood. And it is all done on hugely abbreviated time scales with little cost. The purpose of this presentation is to demonstrate the environment. We also discuss some of our experiences that we hope apply to other virtual environments. One observation is that students need a framework to help to formulate, plan and execute statistical investigations A second is that students view the simulation as a game, enjoying the freedom and challenge of working in an environment where they have a well-defined goal and control over the entire project.

Other papers under session 9A ... 9A2: Learning from the statistician’s lab notebook 9A3: Pupils reasoning with information and misinformation