Science and Mathematics Education Commons^™

Interactive Statistical Computing For Undergraduate Liberal Arts Education, Becky Lindquist, William L. Carlson, Ralph Bjork

Journal of the Minnesota Academy of Science

St. Olaf College at Northfield, Minnesota, has an Interactive Statistical Analysis System for classroom research usage. SODAS (St. Olaf Data Analysis System) operates on a Minicomputer Time Sharing System (DEC PDP / 1140 has 15 terminals, 64K of core, and 3 disks). SODAS is used extensively by students for study of statistics, course projects, and research. In addition, it is used for faculty research . This system has increased student interest by involving them in realistic problems. In addition, student sophistication in problem solving has increased. The paper discusses the system design, the philosophy of interactive computing, and the pedagogical …