Using Seashells to Teach Statistics Through Experimental Design

 

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2013, Volume 34

Hans Lemke

Abstract

The use of scenario based exercises is beneficial when teaching complex or abstract material such as statistics, a subject that is challenging to learn and difficult to teach. Framing this instruction in the context of experimental design allows students to learn the essential concepts of statistics in a familiar setting. This also helps them to appreciate the practical applications of what they are learning. In our introductory ecology and upper-level experimental design classes we have found seashells to be particularly useful for these lessons as students find them familiar and engaging

Keywords:  experimental design, statistics

University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill (2012)