Learning Data Analysis and Mathematical Statistics with a Macintosh

Abstract

The purpose of this note is to report on pedagogical experiments centered around the use of a dedicated program in the learning of mathematical statistics and the practice of data analysis. The authors developed a set of lectures notes with a strong emphasis on: Graphical analyses, random number generation, simulation techniques, resampling methods, dynamic illustration of regression diagnostics, robust methods ... . Most of these concepts can be presented to undergraduate students but no appropriate textbook existed. Also, such a pedagogical experiment could not be conceived without the use of a computer program for use as a companion to the lectures. No satisfactory solution could be found from the existing commercial or public softwares. We discuss in detail some of the most salient features of the experiment and we describe the tools which the authors developed in the process.