Daniela Fiedler|Gena C. Sbeglia|Ross H. Nehm|Ute Harms
How strongly does statistical reasoning influence knowledge and acceptance of evolution?
Leibniz Institute for Science and Mathematics Education|Kiel University|Stony Brook University|Stony Brook University|Leibniz Institute for Science and Mathematics Education|Kiel University
abstract large body research examined students conceptions evolution relationships acceptance evolution proficiency statistical probabilistic reasoning long considered essential feature evolutionary reasoning yet almost empirical work explored putative connections rapro instruments recently developed measure statistical reasoning contexts mathematics rapromath evolution raproevo study provides additional validation instruments using rasch analysis quantifies contribution statistical reasoning understanding accepting evolution recruited large sample n 564 undergraduate students enrolled introductory biology course large public research university united states students completed suite published instruments assessed statistical reasoning evolutionary understanding evolutionary acceptance findings indicate validity inferences derived rapro scores generalized new sample proficiency statistical reasoning explained 28 variance evolutionary knowledge 19 variation evolutionary acceptance inclusion demographic variables model significantly increased explained variance acceptance notably variance evolution acceptance explained statistical reasoning comparable thinking dispositions evolutionary knowledge reported literature work provides first largescale evidence role statistical reasoning evolutionary knowledge acceptance motivates future work explore statistical literacy integrated evolution education efforts