Using Fathom® statistical education software in high school to examine students' acceptance of virtual simulation and use of simulation to model sample size when sampling from large and infinite populations

摘要: Statistical literacy is regarded as essential for good citizenship, employment, and practical day-to-day living. The ubiquitous nature of data and computers in contemporary society has increased both the need statistical means of developing literacy. This study investigated students’ acceptance Fathom® virtual simulation resampling as a legitimate mathematics tool, teaching learning explicit determination sample size when sampling from large populations, students’ development use Fathom statistics education software. The was conducted three-week long classroom unit work taught in two Year 9 classes detailed twelve students Tasmania, Australia. Pedagogical best practice principles derived research guided the study. These included engagement with big ideas statistics, active learning and sets can understand value, enquiry that cultivates statistical habits mind, technology tools allows to explore data concepts, mathematical experiences substance, provision a developmental pathway at more senior years, and authentic assessment. Fathom developed high school tertiary study, its in Australian schools relatively novel. Students’ unfamiliarity software presented least two challenges: Fathom’s resampling probability simulator tool acquiring basic fluency software’s such software not constraint on learning. Students’ probability cultivated purposefully through a process formal where examined fairness the Fathom die. development re-sampling examined from three aspects key terminology, graphical representations, their relationship Fathom. instrumental genesis guided the introduction to, examination of, Fathom. Sample presently ignored curriculum, may complete unsophisticated notions size, possibly first acquired upper primary school. model e=+/Vn, which relates n, margin error e, accuracy measurement, was used this A foremost consideration potentially accessible could apply their understanding real-life context. Large populations were studied because treatment simple. Students’ samples assessed using SOLO taxonomy, situated abstraction used observe selected mathematical concepts. The concluded process may be promote acceptance foster “habits of mind.” e=+/Vn application Year principally to mathematise traditional Law Large Numbers activities, computing power of exploration very sizes. introduction of re-sampling provides foundation the consideration contextual tasks years. suggests that Fathom suitable students, but recommends further exploit fully potential.