Basic Statistical Variation: An Introduction

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Welcome to Basic Statistical Variation. With this module, we will create a strong link between the basic concepts of statistical variation and observations of real-world variations. The module develops data collection, analysis, and presentation/discussion skills; a working understanding of measures of central tendency, variability, and the normal curve; an increased comfort level with statistics; an awareness of both the usefulness of statistics to manufacturing; and ways in which computers can be used to simplify data analysis. Through hands-on data collection and problem-solving, this module allows you to construct for yourself a broad understanding of basic statistical variation and to apply that understanding to a practical business simulation.

After completing this module, you should be able to demonstrate the following competencies:

• Collect, process, and display data so that usable information is represented (Comp. 1).
• Prepare basic charts and graphs (Comp. 2).
• Make inferences based on data analysis
  (Comp. 3).
• Apply measures of central tendency and variability (Comp. 4).
• Solve real-world problems by designing and/or conducting a statistical experiment and by interpreting and communicating the outcome (Comp. 5).
• Describe in general terms the normal curve and use its properties to make conjectures about sets of data that are normally distributed (Comp. 6).

Table of Contents

• The First Session
• ALT #1: Measures of Central Tendency
• ALT #2: Measure of Variability
• ALT #3: The Coin Toss
• ALT #4: Is a Kiss Just a Kiss?
• Transfer Activity: A Handful of Beans
• Closure and Generalization