PME-NA

Graph of Relative Frequencies Trajectory in the Conceptualization of Frequentist Probability in High School

• In Event: Promoting Student Learning about Data and Statistics

Description

This study explores how high school students begin developing the concept of frequentist probability through activities involving simulations of random experiments using Fathom software. It specifically examines the role of relative frequency trajectory graphs in shaping the perception of the Law of Stability of Statistical Frequencies, a precursor to frequentist probability. Two workshops were conducted: one displayed simulation results in tables only, while the other included trajectory graphs of relative frequencies. Findings reveal that students exposed to the graphs identified and described trends in relative frequencies, although their explanations lacked precise technical terms. This highlights the importance of visual representations in the early conceptualization of frequentist probability and underscores the need to address language development in future pedagogical approaches.

Authors

• Ernesto Alonso Sánchez, Departamento de Matemática Educativa, Cinvestav-IPN

• Sandra Areli Martínez Pérez, Colegio de Ciencias y Humanidades

• Guadalupe Carrasco Licea, Colegio de Ciencias y Humanidades, Plantel Sur. UNAM

• Francisco Sepulveda, CINVESTAV, IPN, México