Allison Theobold is an Assistant Professor of Statistics at Cal Poly in beautiful San Luis Obispo, California. Allison received her doctorate in Statistics, with an emphasis in Statistics Education, from Montana State University. Allison’s work focuses on innovation in statistics and data science education, with an emphasis on equitable pedagogy and learning trajectories. Allison is also interested in exploring pedagogical approaches for enhancing retention of under-represented students in STEM, including creating inclusive discoursive spaces and equitable group collaborations.
Why did you decide to go into Statistics/Statistics Education?
In the first year of my master's at Montana State University, my eyes were opened to the variability in pedagogical methods for teaching introductory statistics. Having never experienced simulation-based methods in my undergrad, I was learning these methods alongside the students I was teaching (!). I left that first semester of teaching with an appreciation for the deeper conversations these pedagogical methods facilitated, and an interest in further exploring pedagogy related to statistics education.
What's a class/workshop at your workplace/university that you wish you could take and why?
I would love to take a grant writing workshop! As a newcomer to grant writing, it has been a struggle to navigate both the style of writing that is effective and the procedural information that is required.
What Statistics Topic do you think is the most difficult to teach well?
significance testing
What advice would you give to someone who is new to teaching statistics?
Find a community! Whether it is instructors at your institution or instructors in the broader community, learning to teach is better if you have support.
What is your go-to source for data?
What statistics class(es) are you currently teaching? What statistics classes do you enjoy teaching the most?
Currently: Intermediate Statistics; Favorite: Introduction to R, Intermediate Statistics
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?
Being outside! Trail running, moutain biking, backpacking.
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