Transforming teaching and learning in biostatistics: a simulated classroom scaffolding initiative

Abstract

Many students approach biostatistics units with a degree of trepidation. It is therefore important for statistics units to be engaging and to build students' confidence and enable them to succeed. Feedback from students enrolled in a third year undergraduate research methods and biostatistics unit at Curtin University (Applied Research and Biostatistics 381) highlighted the need for support for off-campus and out of class learning. The need is particularly acute for distance learners. This presentation will outline a project undertaken at Curtin University to support student learning in a third year biostatistics unit. The project is in two parts. The first is the design of pre-class interactive and engaging learner-centred activities that familiarise students with the SPSS statistical software package and introduce them to basic statistical techniques. Its aim is to ensure students gain confidence in using fundamental concepts in biostatistics, through a series of online self-guided interactive workshops. The second part of the project is the production of five short videos, each a simulation of a biostatistics tutorial. The simulations involve student volunteers who have previously taken the unit and achieved good academic performance. The simulated classroom draws on the peer-mentoring philosophy. The videos are designed to facilitate in-depth integrated learning and each one deals with a different threshold concept. Evaluation of the project will involve the tutors and the students.