Describes how to use common dice numbered 1-6 for simple mathematical situations including probability. Presents a lesson using regular dice and specially marked dice to explore some of the concepts of probability. (KHR)

Reports on a study entailing the design, implementation, and evaluation of two versions of a teaching experiment that traced students' growth in probabilistic thinking. Students in the first version focused on analyses of small sample experimental data and sample space composition. Students in the second version made connections between…

Investigates and explores questions and activities related to using a calendar. Students explore number sense and operations, logical reasoning, data analysis, probability, and algebra. (Author/NB)

Presents an example from probability and statistics that ties together several topics including the mean and variance of a discrete random variable, the binomial distribution and its particular mean and variance, the sum of independent random variables, the mean and variance of the sum, and the central limit theorem. Uses Excel to illustrate these…

Discusses the interdependencies between parameter estimation and properties of probabilistic models, such as dependency assumptions, binary vs. nonbinary features, and estimation sample selection. An optimum estimation for binary features applicable to information retrieval is defined, a method for computing this estimation using empirical data is…

Presents examples illustrating how to teach statistics in connection with mathematical concepts. Describes using percentage problems and graphing problems in the classroom. (YP)

Describes the "Buffon's Needle" problem, which is calculating the probability that a needle will cross one of two separated lines. Calculates the probability when the length of the needle is greater than the space of the two lines. Provides an analytic solution and the results of a computer simulation. (YP)

Some uncomplicated illustrations of how probability yields results that seem in conflict with traditional intuition are given. (MNS)

Investigates the problem of finding the expected number of questions necessary to identify 1 out of a set of 30 attribute blocks. Solutions include the use of a tree diagram or a computer simulation. Generalizes the problem for increased numbers of attributes. (MDH)

Describes a simulation-oriented computer microworld named CHANCE used to overcome the limitations of physical materials for experiments in teaching and learning introductory probability. Results of a teaching experiment conducted with four middle school and high school students are discussed. (15 references) (LZ)

Eight experiments examined whether certain human problem-solving mechanisms should be expected to represent probability information in terms of frequency. Findings are consistent with literature indicating that frequentist representations eliminate various cognitive biases, including overconfidence, the conjunction fallacy, and base rate neglect.…

Discusses student difficulties with probability concepts and argues that a key difficulty is the lack of transferability of pupils' curriculum-based knowledge. Presents several probability game activities to help students with these difficulties. (MKR)

Suggests a new approach to environmental protection that requires users of environmental resources to post a bond adequate to cover uncertain future environmental damages. Summarized as the "precautionary polluter pays principle," or the 4P approach, it shifts the burden of proof and the cost of uncertainty from the public to the…

In three studies, children and adolescents were questioned about vignettes that raised issues involved with decision making, such as precedents, the role of probability, open-minded thinking, and errors of omission. Decision-making biases in children's responses were scored. Some age and group differences were found. (BC)

Discusses the mathematics of weighted voting schemes, including representative government. Shows how power is a decreasing function of population size and how tiny parties can have the same power as large constituencies. (MKR)