Dear Cami,
Recently I submitted a request for a Group III exemption for EDLD 486. Mark Cracolice has
subsequently requested that I explain why this 400-level course should be considered
introductory and foundational so let me offer the following explanation…
Statistics and probability concepts are included in most state curriculum standards, in particular
the Common Core State Standards reflect a greater role for educators in collecting and
interpreting data. The following general areas are of particular import in the foundational
sense…
A. Interpreting Categorical and Quantitative Data
• Summarizing, representing, and interpreting data on a single count or measurement
variable
• Summarizing, representing, and interpreting data on two categorical and quantitative
variables
• Interpreting linear models
B. Making Inferences and Justifying Conclusions
• Understanding and evaluating random processes underlying statistical experiments
• Making inferences, justify conclusions in sample surveys, experiments and
observational studies
C. Conditional Probability and the Rules of Probability
• Understanding independence and conditional probability to interpret data
• Computing probabilities of compound events in a uniform probability model
D. Using Probability to Make Decisions
• Calculating expected values and using these to solve problems
• Using probability to evaluate outcomes of decisions
Unfortunately, few pre-service teachers have formal training or applied experience with
statistical concepts, hence this course.