Department of Mathematics
A Taste of Variation
Dan Canada
Portland State University
Variation is a concept central to the twin domains of probability and statistics, yet research focusing on how children and their teachers understand variation has only been recently emerging. After discussing some earlier research and theoretical underpinnings, the methodologies of two current studies about conceptions of variation will be presented: An NSF-sponsored project focuses on the conceptions held by middle and high school students and their teachers, while ongoing doctoral research concerns the conceptions held by elementary preservice teachers. Sample tasks and responses will be shared to illustrate five key aspects comprising a conceptual framework for studying conceptions of variation.
All interested persons are welcome.