Blog #5

I would like to start by saying that I believe hate is a strong word. That being said, I would say statistics dangles on that line, while not crossing it (along with chemistry and trigonometry!). I think my dislike for statistics could have been predicted since elementary school, when it was quite obvious that math was not my thing. High school and college did not seem to make that situation any better – yielding more frustrations. Then, it all culminated last semester, when I had to take a class titled, “Statistics for people (who think) they hate statistics.” It was online and self-taught, which essentially put the nail on the coffin for me. I tend to learn better when things are hands on and when there are examples and interactions/discussions to build on the material. This course, which was my first taste of statistics, left me feeling frustrated and confused. I believe that doing the worksheets in our groups will help me appreciate statistics more fully. I feel that the students in our class have built a great support system in each other, and it would be helpful to complete these assignments together and practice as a class. I understand that statistics are important because data drives change. Without being able to prove there are certain trends, we cannot receive funding and support to be able to make a difference. That is why I am willing to give statistics another try! Let’s do this!