Development of a Framework for Graph Choice and Construction

Abstract

Collecting, understanding, and interpreting data are key skills that all students should master. Research on graph interpretation and basic construction is extensive, and student difficulties, primarily in K-12 type settings, have been well documented [e.g., graph choice, labels for axes, variables, and scaling axes. Although many instructional books exist on graphing, they do not focus on the complex reasoning behind graph choice and construction. It is insufficient to choose an appropriate graph for data (e.g., bar graph for categorical data) without evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of using a particular graph. Here we provide a step-by-step tool to guide students in a sequential and methodological manner from raw data to a finished graphical representation. The guide prompts a reflective approach to the process of graph creation.

Comments

Document available at:

http://advan.physiology.org/content/40/1/123

Keywords

experimentation, graphs, data analysis

Date of this Version

3-1-2016

Volume

40

Issue

1

First Page

123

Last Page

128

DOI

10.1152/advan.00152.2015

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