Primarily statistics: Developing an introductory statistics course for pre-service elementary teachers

Abstract

We developed an introductory statistics course for pre-service elementary teachers. In this paper, we describe the goals and structure of the course, as well as the assessments we implemented. Additionally, we use example course work to demonstrate pre-service teachers’ progress both in learning statistics and as novice teachers. Overall, the course aims to help pre-service teachers recognize the importance of statistics in the elementary curriculum, as well as the integral role they, as teachers, can play in a student’s entire statistical education. Our course serves as a model/resource for others interested in pre-service teacher development.