Examining Potential Latent Constructs in Teaching a Business Statistics Course: Clustering Responses from Attitudinal Survey Data

Robert B. Hasbrouck¹, Borga Deniz¹, Harland Hodges²
(1. Luter School of Business, Christopher Newport University, VA 23606, USA;
2. School of Business, College of Charleston, SC 29424, USA)

Abstract: There are many studies on pedagogical research in the area of statistics. Existing research points out an overall negative attitude towards statistics. However, finding new methods that improve student attitudes is not that easy. In this study we use a pretest and posttest survey methodology, then cluster student attitudes via EFA to show that attitudes improve significantly. Students’ confidence levels increase and they see statistics more useful. The findings are promising when data driven approach is used but more research has to be conducted to develop a sound theory basis on these results.

Key words: statistics; pedagogy; teaching; learning theory; computer application

JEL codes: A22, M10, C38