The Importance of Mathematics Competency in Statistical Literacy

Authors

  • Guolin Lai University of Louisiana at Lafayette
  • John Tanner University of Louisiana at Lafayette
  • David Stevens University of Louisiana at Lafayette

Keywords:

Statistics, Education, Learning,

Abstract

Competence in mathematics and statistics are related, but are not the same thing. To measure the impact of mathematical competence on statistics performance, ACT math scores together with remedial and required math grades were analyzed together with final grades in a two-course sequence of undergraduate statistics. Results indicate that math competence is correlated with success in the first statistics course, but generally not the second. In addition, success in the first statistics course does not imply success in the second. These findings support the claims that mathematics and statistics are two separate disciplines, each deserving of its own pedagogy.

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Published

2011-12-31

Issue

Vol. 2 No. 1 (2011)

Section

ABR Journal Articles

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