Using Physical Manipulatives in Teaching Randomization Tests

• Activity Number: 366
• Type: Contributed
• Date/Time: Tuesday, August 11, 2015 : 10:30 AM to 12:20 PM
• Sponsor: Section on Statistical Education
• Author(s): Victoria Weber*
• Keywords: physical manipulatives ; randomization tests ; education

Abstract

Recent research has shown that using randomization tests to introduce statistical inference in an introductory statistics course improves comprehension. Little has been done to show how pairing hands-on activities with randomization tests impacts student learning. The purpose of this paper is to discuss student's understanding of setting up a null model and the process of a randomization test focusing on differences in understanding between students who have used physical manipulatives in class versus those who have not. This paper is part of a larger study which sought to determine if using physical manipulatives to supplement instruction that relied heavily on simulated data, helped students understand the processes involved in statistical analysis better than those whose instruction was based solely in simulated data. 12 students from an introductory statistics course were selected to participate in paired, task-based interviews twice in the semester they took the course. In one of these interviews, the students used technology and physical manipulatives to answer questions about the process involved in conducting a randomization test.