College Students’ Experiences With Statistical Information Outside the Classroom (Poster 40)

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Friday 9:50 a.m.
  In Poster Session: Mathematics Foundations, Achievement, and Applications Across Educational Levels

Abstract

The ever-increasing amount of statistical information present across domains has made statistical literacy an essential competency for all adults. Despite its importance, research on statistical literacy has largely neglected to study the statistical demands of real-world contexts, limiting instructors’ ability to prepare students. This is especially problematic for students who may have limited domain knowledge, and struggle to use necessary strategies. We surveyed undergraduates to identify contexts where statistics are encountered outside the classroom. Students largely encountered statistics in news articles and on social media. However, they did not perceive social media as a likely source of statistical information. Social media may represent a unique context that requires further study to understand how students identify and interact with statistical information.

Author

• Emilee A. Herman, Pennsylvania State University