By publishing on the internet, we have substantial flexibility with the text and chapter design. In particular, we want to take advantage of nonlinear aspects (e.g., the ability to use hyperlinks for cross-references, show/hide features for calling up content when needed) as well as the interactive nature (e.g., audio/video elements, interactive feedback) of the web. Nonetheless, we will employ a traditional chapter structure for the text (in contrast to an open-ended online dictionary), emphasizing modular aspects.
Please see our Style Guide for Authors.
There will be several resources support the book that will appear outside of the chapter structure, including:
Case Studies and Historical Vignettes. Similar to those appearing within the chapter, include short exercises/examples/special cases that can be readily solved by the viewer. These serve to reinforce concepts and provide benchmarks for understanding. Case studies can be used to emphasize different practices in different countries. Historical vignettes can be interesting in their own right and remind us all of the foundations of our discipline.
Data. We anticipate developing a library of data sets that can be used by instructors who wish to emphasize different areas of practice.
Software Support. We will not focus on developing "R" tutorials but will provide guides and links to people who wish to learn "R". Our focus is on teaching statistical methods and actuarial issues, not software. We also will provide support for users of other software environments, such as Microsoft's Excel and SAS.
Technical Supplements, Lists, and Tables. The roles of technical supplements has already been described and there could be many. As is common in textbooks, we will also provide a place for lists or tables of organized facts for learners.