Modern analysis of data requires the use of technology. To this end, we will be using a variety of technological resources to enhance our learning experience.
Calculators
You must have your own calculator for Statistics. You will need to have, and know how to use, a graphing calculator for this course. (Our textbook supports TI calculators.) The MHS Math Dept. is recommending that all students purchase a Texas Instruments TI-Nspire graphing calculator. A TI-83/84 calculator would also work fine for Statistics and are somewhat less expensive. Other brands can be used but are not supported by our textbook (and I probably won't know how to use them).
I do have some TI-Nspire, TI83 and TI84 graphing calculators that can be signed out for the year by students on a first-come-first-served basis. To sign out a calculator, a student must have the Calculator Sign out Contract signed by BOTH the student and a parent/guardian. Copies of this form are available in class or you can download and print a copy of the form by clicking on the link (in blue) below.
Computers and Software
Our textbook comes with a dvd called ActivStats that provides a wealth of additional resources that students will find helpful. It also includes a statistics software called Data Desk that we will employ throughout the year. This will require that students have access to a computer with a dvd drive. If a student does not have such a computer at home, accommodations can be arranged. All of the lab computers at Moscow High School are capable of running ActivStats and Data Desk. In addition, I now have 15 computers in my classroom that students can use during class and at other times, when available.
Additional statistical software packages can be used by students in lieu of Data Desk, if preferred. One popular and powerful program is called R. It is available for free from the internet. Other programs, such as JMP, Minitab, SPSS and SAS are available, usually for a fee.
It will help if students know how to use a computer spreadsheet program such as EXCEL. We will be using EXCEL extensively throughout the year and we will spend some class time learning how to use EXCEL.
We will also employ an educational networking program call Edmodo. This free, cloud-based program will allow me to post notifications to the class, transfer files back and forth electronically, post, assign and grade homework assignments and many other activities. Another side benefit of students using a program like this is that it will help prepare them for future college practice. Most colleges and universities also use similar programs for online school work. For example, the University of Idaho uses a program called Blackboard. Being familiar with such programs will give MHS students a leg up on their colleagues.