ERIC Number: ED224689
Record Type: RIE
Publication Date: 1982
Reference Count: 0
Introductory Statistics. A Conceptual Approach. Modified Preliminary Edition.
Ross, Steven M.
This document deals with basic statistical concepts and operations used in the social sciences. The book was written under the philosophy that students enter statistics courses with a variety of aptitudes and experiences, and that traditional teaching approaches can do little to accommodate individual needs. It sets up an individualized course, and is designed to support teaching strategies where pupils do much of the learning on their own. The material is divided into 11 units, and the first part of each unit informs pupils of the general content area and how it relates to other topics. Each unit lists specific learning objectives, and provides instruction which includes a practice test for each stated objective. A major characteristic of the text is its emphasis on concepts rather than computations, with greater stress given on the why of procedures than is thought to be usual in most books. The presentation also attempts to reduce pupil anxiety often associated with statistics. This is done through an informal writing style that intersperses anecdotes, "conversational" prose, and humor. Students seem to like this approach, and have indicated that it seems to make reading easier and helps concepts stand out in memory. (MP)
Descriptors: College Mathematics, Higher Education, Individualized Instruction, Instructional Materials, Mathematical Applications, Mathematical Concepts, Mathematics Instruction, Statistics, Supplementary Reading Materials, Textbooks
Interstate Printers and Publishers, Inc., 19-27 North Jackson Street, Danville, IL 61832 ($14.50, less educational discounts).
Publication Type: Guides - Classroom - Learner
Education Level: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A