Modern teaching methods in action in statistical classes

Abstract

To act as a responsible member of a democratic society, everybody needs statistical literacy and practical knowledge on how to use statistical data, visualization, and methods. In the case of professions that use or produce statistical data the correct use of statistics and statistical thinking are also important. Practice and knowledge applicable in real life are also needed. To reach these requirements, using real-life problems, modern technologies (digital solutions, online tools) and up-to-date teaching methods tailored to the target audiences is crucial. Several papers show that the use of real problems, technology and modern teaching methods are more efficient than the traditional frontal teaching method. In this study, we describe some new teaching methods, for instance problem-based learning, project-based learning, thinking-based learning, flipped classroom, gamification, new technological devices. We also discuss the combination of different methods and modern technology in action in the field of Statistics. The paper shares our developments, experiences, and lessons we learnt from classes. One of our main results is the idea that the use of modern teaching approaches leads to more practical and applicable knowledge; however, their success also depends on both the educators’ and the students’ time expenditure and attitude.

Modern Teaching Methods in Action in Statistics Classes in West Bengal

“…Therefore, teachers in classes started to teach various explicit thinking strategies so that students could easily adopt metacognitive perspectives. TBL involves engagement activities such as team projects that push students to collaborative thinking to make effective decisions through dialogue and interactions (Kovacs et al 2021). The major proportion of teachers and professors in the statistics domain in West Bengal belong to Generation X and Generation Y.…”

“…The West Bengal Education Board mainly prioritise traditional teaching in the statistics domain by focusing on the theoretical aspects included in the course syllabus. On the contrary, Kovacs et al (2021) have narrated that PBL focuses on a pedagogical approach of providing students with real-life statistical issues to utilise the theoretical understanding to solve those issues. It promotes hands-on physical experience to encourage students to explore real socio-economic problems.…”

“…This method is also effective in creating an integrated classroom environment among teachers and students. The five essential features of PjBL include driving questions, situated inquiry, collaboration, technological tools and problem-solving making it the most effective modern teaching method (Kovacs et al 2021). In this method, teachers usually divide a class into teams and then give real-time problem-based individual projects to each team.…”

Mobile devices in Hungarian university statistical education

“…In "Modern teaching methods in action in statistical classes", Kovács et al (2021) discuss the use of different innovative methods and modern technology in action in the field of Statistics. We can read about their experiments in some modern teaching methods, such as problem-based learning, project-based learning, thinking-based learning, flipped classroom, gamification, new technological devices, and the combination of these methods, as well.…”

Impact of Problem-Based Learning on the Perception, Understanding, and Application of Statistical Concepts in Business Administration and Management Students

“…Statistics, as a fundamental discipline in the training of future professionals in the field of Business Administration and Management, plays an essential role in informed and strategic decision making. Statistics courses should focus on the development of literacy, critical thinking, and the correct use of statistics [3]. However, the mere understanding of statistical concepts is not enough; it is crucial that students are able to apply these concepts in real business situations [4].…”