Scientific approach to teaching

Motivation for learning statistics: An example from fishery and aquaculture science

Teaching statistics to generalist students oriented toward a profession, rather than academic merits, may be challenging. As statistics courses also tend to have a low student appeal, tailoring a course toward this type of audience is demanding. Framed within the theory of statistical thinking and literacy, this article shows how an investigative process, using domain data and real-life examples, may facilitate meaningful learning and motivate students. Describing and reflecting upon the methods used, both in teaching and assessment, the article contributes to the practice of teaching statistics.

Summary of article:

The article introduces the challenges of teaching statistics to generalist students and explains how using domain data and real-life examples can make statistics more engaging and meaningful for these students. The questions asked are: what is meaningful learning for these generalists and profession-oriented students? How can I design and teach a course that motivates students who are not—at least not initially—inclined toward learning statistics? In particular, how may the use of domain data and real-life examples provide meaningful learning and motivate students?

The article uses Statistics and Method for Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (FSK-1121) as a case and applies the theoretical lenses of statistical thinking and literacy to help students understand and use statistical concepts in a practical context. This article describes some of the methods used and reflects upon what has worked (or not), and thereby contributes with experience and practical examples of how others may approach teaching quantitative methods.

Overall, this article offers insights into how statistics can be taught in a way that is relevant, engaging, and meaningful for generalist students oriented toward a profession.

Link to article: Motivation for learning statistics: An example from fishery and aquaculture science – Sønvisen – 2023 – Teaching Statistics – Wiley Online Library