Spitball Scatterplots in Statistics

Abstract

This paper describes an active learning idea that I have used in my applied statistics class as a first lesson in correlation and regression. Students propel spitballs from various standing distances from the target and use the recorded data to determine if the spitball accuracy is associated with standing distance and review the algebra of lines (slope and intercept) and learn about the meaning of correlation. At the end of the activity, students listed positive aspects of the experiment and things to be improved.

Keywords:

• Active learning
• regression
• correlation
• scatterplot
• slope

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I would like to thank Julie Barnes for reading an earlier version of this manuscript and providing many helpful improvements.