B4F: No bones about it: Engaging with data analysis through an authentic anthropology problem

Abstract

This session engages participants in identifying a mystery specimen through analysis of authentic anthropological data. The No Bones About It series of activities—the result of a collaborative math and science effort—has been implemented with prospective mathematics teachers and mathematics educators and is appropriate for introductory statistics and middle and secondary mathematics teacher preparation classes. Presenters use the active learning pedagogical model promoted in statistics education to engage participants in a series of collaborative activities that collectively promote use of the statistical problem-solving process model articulated in the Pre-K-12 GAISE II Report. The activities consist of analyzing short videos of primates and discussing differences in primate locomotion based on characteristics of bone lengths, using online simulation software of anthropological tools to measure the bones of a mystery specimen, and analyzing the bone length data to identify the mystery specimen. The activities do not require knowledge beyond introductory data analysis. Session goals are to provide an experience in using data analysis within the statistical problem-solving process to solve an authentic problem from science; to blend novel and familiar technologies in statistics learning; to illustrate math and science collaboration for prospective teachers or introductory statistics students; and to provide a sharable collection of activities with colleagues. Presenters share examples of prospective teachers’ conclusions and arguments about the mystery specimen and reactions to the activities. Participants will share feedback about the activities and discuss adaptations for using the activities with their students.