Learning About Sampling with Boxer

This article describes a class taught in the summer of 1988, an introduction to probability and statistics for a heterogeneous group of 12 academically talented secondary students. The main focus was on the concepts of sampling and binomial distributions. The approach was based on simulation, including extensive use of the Boxer computer language. We present the work of a group of 3 students who had minimal prior exposure to computer programming. During the course, these students used, modified, and created computer tools to produce a sophisticated simulation. This project demonstrates the value of integrating programming with teaching subject matter.