How to Use Descriptive Statistics in the Classroom

Descriptive statistics quantitatively describe a collection of data. Descriptive statistics include measures of central tendency, like mean, median and mode. They also include measures of dispersion like the standard deviation, which tells you how data is spread out around the mean. In order to effectively use descriptive statistics you should present the data using the rule of four: geometrically, numerically, analytically and verbally. The rule of four ensures that all students in your classroom will have an opportunity to understand the data you are presenting.

Things You'll Need

  • Graphs or charts
  • Raw Data
  • Whiteboard and pen
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Instructions

    • 1

      Make a graph or chart of the data. Histograms, scatter graphs and box plots can all be used to display descriptive statistics. Make handouts for each student, or prepare a chart before class on the whiteboard.

    • 2

      Prepare a list of the raw data that was used to make the graph or chart. For example, if you use a histogram for your class, you may also want to prepare a frequency distribution table showing the raw data used to prepare the chart.

    • 3

      Describe the graph or chart and the raw data to your students. Verbal explanations of descriptive statistics are a vital component of understanding. To ensure your students are listening, ask them to participate in a classroom discussion about the data and invite questions.

    • 4

      Incorporate written material into your lecture. Written material usually comes in the form of a textbook but if you don't have a textbook, prepare handouts or instruct students to take notes in class.

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