SURVEYS ASSESSING STUDENTS’ ATTITUDES TOWARD STATISTICS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF VALIDITY AND RELIABILITY

Abstract

Students with positive attitudes toward statistics are likely to show strong academic performance in statistics courses. Multiple surveys measuring students’ attitudes toward statistics exist; however, a comparison of the validity and reliability of interpretations based on their scores is needed. A systematic review of relevant electronic databases yielded 532 citations, 78 of which were reviewed, and 35 included in a final analysis. Fifteen instruments were identified; however, evidence of validity and reliability has only accumulated for the Statistics Attitude Scale, Attitudes Toward Statistics Scale, and Survey of Attitudes Toward Statistics (two versions). In conclusion, a number of surveys exist, but there is a paucity of peer-reviewed validity and reliability evidence.

First published November 2012 at Statistics Education Research Journal: Archives