Computer competency will enhance statistical literacy

• Main Authors: Saad, Rohaizah, Mohd Saifudin, Adam, Yaacob, Aizan
• Format: Conference or Workshop Item
• Language: English
• Published: 2015
• Subjects: LB Theory and practice of education; T Technology (General)
• Online Access: http://repo.uum.edu.my/13556/1/1.pdf; http://repo.uum.edu.my/13556/; http://worldconferences.net/gse2015/
• Institution: Universiti Utara Malaysia

Statistical literacy among society is crucial in facing era of globalization and competitive market.Hence, statistic subject becoming a core subject thought at most of the university program. However, the name of the course is varies according to needs of the program curriculum. Statistic is not an easy subject and not attractive to students.Therefore, through action research approach this study attempt to introduce computer knowledge that related to statistic through training may enhance students’ learning. Undergraduate students of course Statistic for Decision Making are involved which is stood at 57 students.As mentioned in previous literature computer competency will enhance students learning in statistic.However it was not conducted in the form of action research. Therefore, the training was conducted which is tailored to the needs of the course contents.In order to assess the students’ understanding two stages of survey was conducted before and after the training sessions. The survey questions were developed based on spreadsheet module which is related to statistic. Rasch Analysis Model under Item Respond Theory was applied in evaluating the level of understanding before and after the introduction of spreadsheet statistical function in the software to the students.Winsteps version 38.1.0 is used as a tool in analysing the data collected from the survey questions.The spreadsheet software is chosen rather than other software because of its popularity among the practitioners and also easily available and easy to learn.The result shows that students’ computer competency are improved after the training sessions.During the training session students are very curious and enthusiastic to learn about the statistical function that can help them to understand statistic.Their competency has reflected in their statistic assignment where the quality of assignment has improved. Sincerity and creativity in teaching may help students’ enhance their knowledge as well as skills.