MSOR connectionsPub Date : 2024-04-25DOI: 10.21100/msor.v22i3.1476
Lois Rollings
{"title":"Talking Statistics: A reflection on some of the problems with statistical language","authors":"Lois Rollings","doi":"10.21100/msor.v22i3.1476","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21100/msor.v22i3.1476","url":null,"abstract":"For most of my life I managed to swerve statistics. I learned a little at school and studied some (very theoretical) statistics as part of my mathematics degree. As a teacher, in schools and then university, I did not teach anything beyond GCSE statistics. It was not until I got a post in Mathematics and Statistics support a decade ago that I had to begin to learn the subject properly.I had excellent support from the sigma network, attending a memorable SPSS Bootcamp and other events which helped me enormously. But I was conscious that there were various aspects of statistics that presented problems for me. One was the way in which statistics differed from mathematics in being much less cut and dried. If a student had made a mistake in a calculation or argument it was fairly easy to spot and correct. However, when a student said ‘my supervisor said I should do a t-test’ and this did not seem the most appropriate way forward it was much harder to advise. I also realised that I was finding the language of statistics harder to master than I felt it ought to have been. It is this aspect that I will focus on in this article as I tentatively suggest that students might also have such problems.","PeriodicalId":18932,"journal":{"name":"MSOR connections","volume":"59 39","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-04-25","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140656370","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
MSOR connectionsPub Date : 2024-04-25DOI: 10.21100/msor.v22i3.1474
C. G. Ardito
{"title":"Zero waste: leveraging blended learning materials in traditional teaching","authors":"C. G. Ardito","doi":"10.21100/msor.v22i3.1474","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21100/msor.v22i3.1474","url":null,"abstract":"In recent years, and especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, several university course units have moved from a traditional format, made of face-to-face lectures supplemented by notes and exercise sheets, to a blended learning format based mainly on asynchronous engagement with recorded lectures, videos, and notes, followed by supplementary synchronous sessions to consolidate and expand on the core material. While during Covid-19 the latter format presented clear advantages, as things slowly go back to normal course leaders are free to choose between the two formats, each of which has its own set of advantages and challenges.In this case study we explore the transition from a blended learning course back to a traditional face-to-face format, focusing on the use of an innovative ‘anthology’ approach to repurpose digital materials. Originally a blended learning course featuring a mix of videos, notes, and quizzes, the course underwent a transformation to adapt to a more conventional format without sacrificing the accumulated digital resources. Through this transition, an anthology of learning materials was created, which serves as supplementary support for student learning, providing a wealth of learning aids, ranging from mandatory activities to entirely optional exercises. Challenges encountered during this transition, specifically avoiding an increase in workload, and the maturity required from students, will be examined. We aim to provide a framework to highlight the potential of effectively reutilising blended learning resources within traditional teaching frameworks, while being mindful of workload issues, to enrich the students' learning experience.","PeriodicalId":18932,"journal":{"name":"MSOR connections","volume":"3 9","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-04-25","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140654573","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
MSOR connectionsPub Date : 2024-04-25DOI: 10.21100/msor.v22i3.1485
Tom Goodale
{"title":"Using Generative AI to help with statistical test selection and analysis","authors":"Tom Goodale","doi":"10.21100/msor.v22i3.1485","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21100/msor.v22i3.1485","url":null,"abstract":"One of the most common questions that students ask statistics advisors is ‘What test should I do?’ This paper explores the use of generative AI chatbots, specifically ChatGPT, as a tool to assist students, in particular those with limited experience in statistics, in selecting appropriate statistical tests for their analyses. Traditional methods, such as flowcharts and online test selectors, require at least a basic understanding of measurement scales and research design, which can be an issue for many students who have limited exposure to statistics on their courses. This research focuses on developing and refining prompts to guide ChatGPT in providing accurate and relevant statistical test recommendations. A hypothetical scenario was used to test the effectiveness of various prompts, ranging from simple, naïve questions to more sophisticated ones utilising specific prompt patterns, such as the ‘context manager’ and ‘flipped interaction.’ These patterns were selected to enhance the chatbot’s responses and ensure the relevance and accuracy of the test suggestions. The findings suggest that while AI chatbots like ChatGPT can be a valuable resource for students, their effectiveness is highly dependent on the quality of the prompts used. The paper concludes with a discussion on the potential of these AI tools in educational settings, acknowledging the limitations of current technology and suggesting directions for future research and development.","PeriodicalId":18932,"journal":{"name":"MSOR connections","volume":"1 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-04-25","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140653736","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
MSOR connectionsPub Date : 2024-04-25DOI: 10.21100/msor.v22i3.1479
Donald Shearman, Shatha Aziz, J. Pettigrew
{"title":"Development and analysis of a Numbas diagnostic tool for use in a mathematics refresher program","authors":"Donald Shearman, Shatha Aziz, J. Pettigrew","doi":"10.21100/msor.v22i3.1479","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21100/msor.v22i3.1479","url":null,"abstract":"We describe the development and analysis of an online diagnostic tool implemented in the Numbas e-learning system and used in an Australian university mathematics refresher program. Following the rapid transition to online delivery of the refresher program caused by COVID-19, the diagnostic instruments and methods used within the pre-pandemic, in-person, version of the program were lost. In 2022, we undertook to revive them in a way that would honour their original diagnostic purpose but offer a more sophisticated approach utilising the Numbas diagnostic exam type. Improvement of the tool after its initial deployment has involved the use of Rasch-based item analysis and recursive refinement of the knowledge map underlying the items.","PeriodicalId":18932,"journal":{"name":"MSOR connections","volume":"21 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-04-25","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140653567","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
MSOR connectionsPub Date : 2024-04-25DOI: 10.21100/msor.v22i3.1470
Simon A. Fairfax, Subhrajyoti Saha
{"title":"Facilitating collaborations between home and international students; different perspectives of engagement associated with having responsibilities in a group environment","authors":"Simon A. Fairfax, Subhrajyoti Saha","doi":"10.21100/msor.v22i3.1470","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21100/msor.v22i3.1470","url":null,"abstract":"This case study reports on students’ responses to a newly designed group project used in a second-year undergraduate module at the University of Liverpool. The goals of the group project were to improve student engagement in the module and facilitate a collaboration between home and international students to develop a broader sense of student community within the department of mathematics. The extent to which these goals were achieved are explored in detail.","PeriodicalId":18932,"journal":{"name":"MSOR connections","volume":"8 23","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-04-25","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140654982","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
MSOR connectionsPub Date : 2024-04-25DOI: 10.21100/msor.v22i3.1483
Marian Hurley, Deirdre Casey
{"title":"Toward a holistic approach to mathematics support at Munster Technological University’s Academic Learning Centre","authors":"Marian Hurley, Deirdre Casey","doi":"10.21100/msor.v22i3.1483","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21100/msor.v22i3.1483","url":null,"abstract":"This case study outlines plans for a revised approach to mathematics support at Munster Technological University’s Academic Learning Centre. Under this proposed approach, mathematics support – delivered both on a one-to-one basis and in group settings – is to be supplemented by and integrated with learning supports offered by the Academic Learning Centre’s sister programmes, Academic Success Coaching and Navigate Learning Development. This new approach will see the three programmes brought together under the Academic Learning Centre name. In implementing this approach, we have two key objectives: firstly, to determine the impact of this integrated approach on our mathematics support service and on its users – particularly those displaying traits of mathematics anxiety – and, secondly, to assess the extent to which presenting students with one integrated support option may result in increased service access and use.","PeriodicalId":18932,"journal":{"name":"MSOR connections","volume":"45 15","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-04-25","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140656915","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
MSOR connectionsPub Date : 2024-04-25DOI: 10.21100/msor.v22i3.1481
Cerian Brewer
{"title":"Engaging students via interactive lecture activities inspired by common classroom practice","authors":"Cerian Brewer","doi":"10.21100/msor.v22i3.1481","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21100/msor.v22i3.1481","url":null,"abstract":"This article summarises the author’s experience transitioning from Further Education (FE) to Higher Education (HE) teaching in 2022-23. It identifies areas for concern in the author’s setting and outlines the author’s strategies for overcoming these obstacles, utilising their background in FE. In particular, this article explores common, engaging classroom activities and outlines why these activities require adapting for use in HE. Inspired by these classroom activities, this article presents a selection of interactive lecture activities promoting student engagement via formative assessment, adaptive teaching, and student ownership. It summarises how the activities have evolved over time and reflects on their use. Finally, the author reviews the success of the activities, discusses students’ reactions to them, and outlines future plans.","PeriodicalId":18932,"journal":{"name":"MSOR connections","volume":"54 42","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-04-25","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140656750","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
MSOR connectionsPub Date : 2024-04-25DOI: 10.21100/msor.v22i3.1480
Rupert E. H. Kuveke, Amanda J Shaker, Luke Prendergast
{"title":"Designing an introductory statistics subject for students with diverse educational backgrounds and chosen qualifications","authors":"Rupert E. H. Kuveke, Amanda J Shaker, Luke Prendergast","doi":"10.21100/msor.v22i3.1480","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21100/msor.v22i3.1480","url":null,"abstract":"This is a case study on the design of a first-year undergraduate statistics subject at La Trobe University, entitled Making Sense of Data, which is taken by students from various disciplines. To account for students' diverse educational backgrounds and chosen qualifications, this subject is designed such that all students complete core statistics concepts, while a third of the subject contains stream-specific content. This subject design provides students with a solid foundation in statistics, while addressing the demand for a flexible first-year statistics subject which is accessible and relevant for students enrolled in a variety of tertiary degrees. This structure allows for stream-specific lectures, computer lab material, assessments, and even statistical software programs to be used across different streams. The design also incorporates strategies for addressing statistics anxiety within the curriculum. In this paper, we present the outcomes of this subject design in terms of student performance, engagement and satisfaction. We also present iterative and reflective changes that have been made to the subject over time, in response to student and staff feedback, and discuss the impact these changes have had on student outcomes.","PeriodicalId":18932,"journal":{"name":"MSOR connections","volume":"16 6","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-04-25","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140658943","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
MSOR connectionsPub Date : 2024-04-04DOI: 10.21100/msor.v22i2.1486
C. Mac an Bhaird, Aisling McGlinchey, Peter Mulligan
{"title":"Win-Win-Win: Drop-in Mathematics Support for Secondary School Students","authors":"C. Mac an Bhaird, Aisling McGlinchey, Peter Mulligan","doi":"10.21100/msor.v22i2.1486","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21100/msor.v22i2.1486","url":null,"abstract":"Mathematics Learning Support (MLS), which is available in the majority of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Ireland and the UK, is traditionally available only to students of those institutions. In this paper, we describe a drop-in model of MLS at Maynooth University (MU) which has been available for secondary school students since 2009. This service is mainly staffed by volunteer undergraduate trainee teachers. Their feedback, the main focus of this paper, which has been collected over ten years, indicates that this experience has had a positive impact on their teaching practice. School students are also very positive about the support and MU enthusiastically endorses the service. We conclude that there are no obvious downsides to the provision of this type of support and we believe that more institutions should consider making it available.","PeriodicalId":18932,"journal":{"name":"MSOR connections","volume":"9 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-04-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140743591","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
MSOR connectionsPub Date : 2024-04-04DOI: 10.21100/msor.v22i2.1478
Carol Calvert, James Warren
{"title":"Towards practical learning using air quality monitors","authors":"Carol Calvert, James Warren","doi":"10.21100/msor.v22i2.1478","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21100/msor.v22i2.1478","url":null,"abstract":"In this study, we explore the use of a low-cost air quality monitor as an experiment within a first year undergraduate statistics setting. The aim is to enhance student engagement and to provide a basis for both individual and group assessments. A pilot, during the summer months of June-September 2023, involved 52 volunteer students who collected indoor and outdoor air quality data. The students shared their data and analytical insights. “Fun/enjoyment” was frequently mentioned in student feedback, suggesting this practical approach may improve student engagement.","PeriodicalId":18932,"journal":{"name":"MSOR connections","volume":"8 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-04-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140745218","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}