Determining the needs of introductory statistics university students: A qualitative survey study

Abstract

Since we are entering the fourth industrial revolution, it becomes increasingly important that students, irrespective of their field of study, are data literate. However, many students view their mandatory statistics modules with contempt. This qualitative study analysed students’ comments to determine what their needs are to improve these modules to increase the students’ enjoyment and improve their performance in statistics. Monte Carlo simulations were used to scientifically justify that data saturation was attained by the survey study. This is an objective reproducible method to determine if a sample size is large enough to ensure that important themes are not missed. It is clear from the students’ responses that they do not enjoy being taught in the same way students were taught statistics years ago. Statistics education needs to change to keep up with changing times and the needs of the new generation. The comments of the students touched on similar topics that are being addressed internationally regarding the instruction and assessment of statistics students; therefore, it will be sensible to implement these recommendations in future.