The authors briefly describe an approach for engaging students in introductory statistics modules with data which the students generate themselves which is returned to them in real-time. We extend an invitation to all to make use of our system and contribute ideas for broadening its use…It has been clear to the authors for some time that more interesting sources of real data for teaching and learning introductory statistics (graphs, descriptive statistics, regression etc) are desirable for motivating students in the subject. Having ‘interesting’ data is key and one approach is to collect data which can be used across disciplines, and which is of interest to all students. Two topics that are often both interesting and useful to them, especially in the first year at university, are accommodation and neighbourhood safety/crime. In any case these are topics students are likely to discuss and can be investigated through the ‘Statistical Problem Solving Approach’ cycle with which many should already be familiar with from studying GCSE mathematics.
Our survey tool project extends the LimeSurvey software [www.limesurvey.org] by adding the ability to download participants’ responses to them, in a controlled manner in real time.
The authors briefly describe an approach for engaging students in introductory statistics modules with data which the students generate themselves which is returned to them in real-time. We extend an invitation to all to make use of our system and contribute ideas for broadening its use…It has been clear to the authors for some time that more interesting sources of real data for teaching and learning introductory statistics (graphs, descriptive statistics, regression etc) are desirable for motivating students in the subject. Having ‘interesting’ data is key and one approach is to collect data which can be used across disciplines, and which is of interest to all students. Two topics that are often both interesting and useful to them, especially in the first year at university, are accommodation and neighbourhood safety/crime. In any case these are topics students are likely to discuss and can be investigated through the ‘Statistical Problem Solving Approach’ cycle with which many should already be familiar with from studying GCSE mathematics.
Our survey tool project extends the LimeSurvey software [www.limesurvey.org] by adding the ability to download participants’ responses to them, in a controlled manner in real time.
