Re: [HM] Is Statistics Part of Mathematics?

Victor Steinbok (aardvark69@earthlink.net)
Mon, 29 Mar 1999 14:35:49 -0400

Probability and statistics both require the kind of non-deterministic
thinking that is foreign to the rest of school mathematics. Furthermore,
the methods developed in probability are absolutely necessary in
analysing data. Since they are barely taught in the rest of the
curriculum, one cannot assume that students are familiar with it.

As for the history question, I just don't know enough to answer it.

VS-)

Mike Robison wrote:
>
> This initial statement is where I would appreciate clarification. In
> developing a curriculum for a basic level (prerequisite basic HS
> algebra) statistics class, we are including a probability unit. This
> has been challenged as unnecessary. I guess I have two related
> questions.
> Is there a historical reason that probability is included in basic
> statistics?
>
> Has probability "always" been included in basic statistics classes?
>
> Thank you.