Assessing Statistical Thinking Using the Media

摘要: At the end of nineteenth century H. G. Wells claimed that “statistical thinking will one day be as necessary for efficient citizenship ability to read and write” (quoted in Castles, 1992, p. v). The growing emphasis, recent years, on probability statistics mathematics curriculum might seen acknowledging Wells’s prophecy. This increased statistical content is evident curricular documents many western countries: example, Australia includes chance data, England Wales, data handling, United States, probability, New Zealand, statistics. Beyond merely placing technical topics curriculum, emphasis needs society relation also reflected statements. In it found A National Statement Mathematics Australian Schools (Australian Education Council [AEC], 1991) under headings which require students “understand explain social uses chance” (p.175) impact daily life” (p.178). Teachers Mathematics’ (NCTM) Curriculum Evaluation Standards (1989) exhibits same sentiments. There should provide situations so can develop an appreciation methods powerful means decision-making” (p.105) “the pervasive use real world” (p.109). Hence are suggested inclusion not only because their innate worth intellectual but application dealing with issues wider society. need decision-making exemplified every news media, where reports appear wide-ranging politics, health, town planning, environmental control, unemployment, sport, science, attendance at cultural events. If evidence literacy then media ideal