Thinking Statistically: Learn It 1

  • List the steps of the statistical investigative process

Why learn about statistical thinking?

Now that you’ve started this class, you might be asking yourself the question, “When and where will I use statistics?” but the truth is, we see data and use statistics on a daily basis. If you consume media of any kind, you will come across statistical information. There are statistics shared about every facet of life, including crime, sports, education, politics, and real estate. Statistics are often used to mislead or influence, but they can also help you make your best educated prediction or determine if you have evidence to support a claim.

A line graph titled 'Tracking Inflation in the U.S.' showing unadjusted year-over-year percentage changes in the U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers from 2016 to 2023. The y-axis ranges from 0 to 8%. Notable points are labeled, with 'COVID lockdown begins' at the start of 2020 where inflation is below 2% and 'Inflation hits 40-year high' around 2022 and nearly 8%. Between 2022 and 2023 the graph reaches a maximum peak above 8%. The graph ends with a 3.7% rate in 2023. The data source is the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and the chart is created with Datawrapper.
Figure 1. This graph on U.S. inflation illustrates how statistical data helps us understand real-world trends—like the impact of major events such as the COVID-19 lockdown—highlighting the value of statistical thinking in making informed decisions.

Questions that can be answered using statistics:

  • Is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit really the normal body temperature?
  • How does the housing market today compare with the housing market 20 years ago?
  • Are Black Friday deals actually a discount?

statistics

Statistics is a science that deals with the collection, analysis, interpretation, and presentation of data.

Since statistics are regularly used to share information and misinformation, you need to know some techniques for analyzing the information thoughtfully. Think about buying a house or managing a budget. Think about your professional goals. As examples, the study of economics, business, psychology, education, biology, law, computer science, political science, and early childhood development usually require at least one course in statistics.

Throughout this course, you will practice statistical thinking using real data and embedded practice. Let’s start by learning about the investigative processes of problem solving and decision making.


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