Developing Concepts in Probability and Statistics—and Much More

Abstract

In recent years school mathematics programs have included an increasing emphasis on probability and statistics. Many of the activities suggested in these programs offer wonderful opportunities to involve students in active learning experiences in which they perform experiments using a variety of manipulative materials (e.g., coins, spinners, dice, and cards). These activities are highly motivational and certainly lend themselves to the use of manipulative materials. However, all too often such activities tend to become supplementary or enrichment experiences that are quite limited in scope and isolated from the rest of the school mathematics program, and the connection between using manipulative materials and learning basic mathematical concepts is weak.