Development of Statistical Literacy through an activity on the preservation of the Atlantic Forest

highlighting the potential of Mathematical Modeling

Abstract

In the world we live in, connected and constantly tuned in to everything that happens, with information easily accessible from all sides, having statistical knowledge is increasingly necessary to discern what is presented to us. In this context, Statistical Education is a field of research that aims to study and understand how people teach and learn Statistics, valuing practices rooted in students’ daily lives, where they become aware of social aspects often overlooked. Mathematical Modeling supports this process by aiding the development of critical thinking and the ability to solve problems in a structured manner, aiming to address relevant issues from students’ daily experiences and, whenever possible, to work on matters inherent to social praxis. The activity was carried out with first-year high school students during Environment Week and aimed to develop Statistical Literacy skills through the use of the stages of a Mathematical Modeling cycle in the classroom—researching, analyzing, discussing, and presenting statistical data and information about deforestation and other environmental impacts affecting the Atlantic Forest, as well as the consequences of these impacts on planet Earth. The findings from the research raised concerns that were previously absent among the students. However, upon realizing that these impacts could affect their lives over time, the topic became meaningful and contributed to their engagement with the proposed activity. The development of Statistical Literacy was especially evident through the discussions involving the statistical data gathered.