By Shonda Kuiper (Grinnell College)
Information
This online activity, freely accessible to students, generates data through an ESP game and allows for analysis via interactive visualizations. It introduces key statistical concepts such as null and alternative hypotheses, significance levels, and p-values. Discussion questions prompt students to consider the relevance and interpretation of p-values, incorporating real-world examples of their misuse in popular media. The activity was tested in an introductory statistics course with 20 students as an in-class exercise in computer-equipped classrooms. It was also used as a review of hypothesis testing in an upper-level course, where students completed the initial reading, game, and multiple-choice questions as homework, allowing the in-class session to focus on in-depth discussions. A post-class survey revealed that 95% of introductory students and 100% of upper-level students found the activity an effective way to learn or review this core statistical concept. Additionally, the survey showed that all students, after participating in the activity, recognized the importance of 1) critically evaluating data collection methods and 2) applying critical thinking when conducting hypothesis tests. Beyond being an engaging and enjoyable experience, this activity provides a solid foundation for students, emphasizing the importance of asking insightful questions about hypothesis tests over simply focusing on calculations.