Significado y comprensión de la distribución normal en un curso introductorio de análisis de datos

Abstract

In this paper we describe an experience for teaching the normal distribution inside a course of data analysis based on the use of computers, and directed to students in their first year of University studies. Basing on a theoretical framework about the meaning of mathematical objects, we describe different elements of meaning in the normal distribution and emphasize the specific elements induced by the use of computers. We assess the knowledge acquired by our students, at the end of the course by using two different instruments: a) A written questionnaire; b) Three tasks regarding a new data file to be solved with the help of computers. A detailed analysis of students’ responses show that the students learnt to use the software and acquired many elements of meanings considered in teaching. On the contrary, we observed difficulties in discriminating empirical data and mathematical models, interpreting some statistics summaries and graphs and lack of analysis and synthesis ability.