ABS: Bringing data to life in the classroom (Media Release)

July 9, 2007

Embargoed 11.30 am (AEST)

78/2007

Innovative web pages were recently launched to promote the understanding and use of statistics in schools for teachers and students, says the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).

Divided into separate sections for teachers and students, the pages offer a range of learning resources, including classroom activities, learning tools, professional development materials, games and specially selected ABS publications and datasets.

The web pages were designed by the ABS and can be found on www.abs.gov.au/teachers or www.abs.gov.au/students.

“Our aim is to assist educators to bring data and statistics to life in the school classroom,” said Brian Pink, the Australian Statistician.

“The ABS has an important role to play in increasing statistical literacy in the community, and one way we can do this is by assisting schools in teaching the importance of good quality statistical information.”

The teacher's section includes classroom activities for secondary school students, covering commerce and economics, geography and mathematics. Designed by education professionals, these activities have been linked to the curriculum of each state and territory to make it easier for teachers to incorporate them into their existing program.

The student area includes a series of on-line learning objects produced by The Le@rning Federation, specially selected to explain statistical concepts in a fun and engaging way.

Students will also find an explanation of what the ABS does, including the background and purpose of the Census. Other features include Statistic of the Week and Statistical Stories exploring real world examples of the important role data and statistics has played throughout history.

The new ABS Education Services pages are available free on-line from the ABS website on www.abs.gov.au/teachers or www.abs.gov.au/students.