Teaching students to estimate complex probabilities of board game events through simulation. (18th August 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lyford, Alex; Czekanski, Michael
• Is Part Of: Teaching statistics. Volume 42:Number 3(2020)
• Page Start: 117
• Page End: 125
• Publication Date: 2020-08-18
• Subjects: teaching -- board games -- probability -- simulation -- teaching statistics; Statistics -- Study and teaching (Elementary) -- Periodicals; Statistics -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Periodicals; 373
• DOI: 10.1111/test.12235
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0141-982X

Abstract

Abstract: Students are typically introduced to probability through calculating simple events like flipping a coin. While these calculations can be done by hand, more complex probabilistic events, both in class and in the real world, require the use of computers. In this paper, we introduce a new tool—an R shiny web app and associated CRAN package based on the board game "CamelUp"—to help students explore these probability calculations through simulation in a fun context. Through this app and in conjunction with the board game Camel Up, we present some sample activities for helping students better understand and make in‐game probabilistic decisions.