Preprint #96-27
Tools for Teaching Regression Concepts Using
Dynamic Graphics
by
Mervyn G. Marasinghe and Tae-Sung Shin
Abstract
This paper extends work on the construction of modules that use graphical
and simulation techniques for teaching statistical concepts (Marasinghe,
Meeker, Cook, and Shin, 1996). These modules consist of two components:
a software part and an instructional part. A computer program written in
LISP-STAT with a highly interactive user interface that the instructor
and the students can use for exploring various ideas and concepts
associated with a topic forms the software part. The instructional part
is a prototype lesson providing guidance for instructors in creating
their own lessons. This includes a description of concepts to be covered,
instructions on how to use the module and some exercises. The regression
module attempts to teach concepts associated with regression such as
the use of residuals, diagnostics, partial residuals, etc., the effects
that transforming the response variable have on the regression as
gauged by well-known diagnostic plots, and the effects of collinearity
on model selection.
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University,
Department of Statistics, Snedecor Hall, Ames, IA 50011-1210.