Simulating the data investigative cycle in less than two hours: using a virtual human population, cloud collaboration and a statistical package to engage students in a quantitative research methods course
Year: 2013
Type: conference-paper
Abstract: Providing practical and relevant experience with the data investigative process is known to help engage students in quantitative research methods courses; however, limited student experience, time constraints, and ethical concerns present serious challenges to this goal. Recent advances in technology may provide innovative solutions. This paper reports on the development and implementation of a series of two-hour weekly computer laboratories that simulated the data investigative cycle in a research methods course for psychology students. The technologies included an online virtual human world, known as the Island, cloud collaboration technology and a statistical package. Each laboratory session aimed to engage students in all stages of the data investigative cycle, specifically: stating a problem, planning a study, gathering and analysing data and drawing conclusions. Student feedback from the sessions was overwhelming positive, which highlights the potential of combining innovative technologies to actively engage students in learning research methods and statistics.
Source: IASE Satellite Conference
DOI: 10.52041/srap.13503
Authors: James Baglin, John Reece, Michael Bulmer, Mirella Di Benedetto
Institution: RMIT University
Language: English
Subfield: Statistics and Probability
Field: Mathematics
Domain: Physical Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W88756049