Teaching statistics before calculus?

[Andy Resnick]

What percentage of students who will pass the assessments for these learning objectives do you reckon will really be competent with them?
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There is a plethora of other threads devoted to discussing this. I don't see the need to re-hash what is at best empty speculation and at worst, character assassination.

 

[Dr. Courtney]

There is a plethora of other threads devoted to discussing this. I don't see the need to re-hash what is at best empty speculation and at worst, character assassination.

Empty speculation and character assassination? Who is the target of this alleged character assassination?

Empty speculation? I've taught college level physics labs for many years, as well as both algebra-based and calc-based statistics.

My observations of the level of statistics preparation students have is based on first hand experience and working with thousands of students in intro courses.

My first hand experience gives me a high level of confidence in students who complete a stats course through ALEKS or Coursera, but I have less confidence in other pathways. There are some dual enrollment opportunities for high school students to take intro stats courses at local colleges and universities, but the quality of statistics learning here will come down to the local institution and individual instructor.