Statistical literacy in data revolution era: Building blocks and instructional dilemmas

Abstract

The data revolution has given citizens access to enormous large-scale open databases. In order to take into account the full complexity of data, we have to change the way we think in terms of the nature of data and its availability, the ways in which it is displayed and used, and the skills that are required for its interpretation. Substantial changes in the content and processes involved in statistics education are needed. This paper calls for the introduction of new pedagogical constructs and principles needed in the age of the data revolution. The paper deals with a new construct of statistical literacy. We describe principles and dispositions that will become the building blocks of our pedagogical model. Our model suggests that effective engagement with large-scale data, modelling and interpretation situations requires the presence of knowledge-bases as well as supporting dispositions.