Statistical Literacy and Science Communication: Interdisciplinary Workshop

Workshop 1: Statistical Literacy

Literacy is regarded as the starting point of education, a means through which we can gather further knowledge. It is, however, often associated with reading and writing, rather than numeracy. Yet, most of what we value about literacy (e.g., identification, interpretation and understanding), requires an ability to interpret numbers and not just the written word.

Some key questions for discussion:

• Why do certain groups in society value statistical literacy, while others find it inaccessible?
• Do journalists in the UK receive sufficient statistical training to communicate scientific evidence
• What are the causes of statistical illiteracy? Perhaps this is due to “maths anxiety” or an inability to see value in being numerical literate?

We will provide a light lunch during the workshops, and you are invited in the evening to dinner at a local restaurant. You are welcome to attend one or both workshops.

For questions, contact the workshop organisers David Chivers and Susanne Braun. Please email david.chivers@durham.ac.uk to confirm your attendance.