Using web-based tools for teaching statistical concepts and experimentation skills
This paper describes a number of generally accessible web-based tools the authors developed over the last couple of years and used in several statistics courses, ranging from the introductory statistics course to a specialized design of experiments course. The first set of tools (VESTAC) illustrates statistical concepts, the second one (VIRTEX) consists of virtual experiments. We discuss some of our experiences with regard to the development and maintenance of these tools and their use in ex cathedra teaching sessions, in guided practice sessions and in student projects. Finally we discuss a third type of tools: distance experiments.
An Active Learning In-Class Demonstration of Good Experimental Design
This article presents an active learning demonstration available on the Internet using Java applets to show a poorly designed experiment and then subsequently a well-designed experiment. The activity involves student participation and data collection. It demonstrates the concepts of randomization and blocking, as well as the need to carefully consider the objective of a study and how well the data collected answer the question of interest. The proposed exercise takes approximately 50 minutes of lecture time and helps to solidify these essential statistical concepts in a visual and memorable way. A variation of the activity could extend the presentation to 75 minutes. Students have reacted positively to the exercise.
Mentally disordered offenders and the law: Research update on the insanity defense, 2004-2019.
The insanity defense is among the most controversial legal constructs that has attracted the attention of scholars, practitioners and policy makers. Here, we conducted a systematic review of the literature spanning 2004 to 2019 that produced 58 studies of insanity defense research. Findings are organized according to: (1) assessments and assessment-related issues, (2) juror decision-making in defense trials, (3) characteristics of insanity acquittees, (4) release recommendations for insanity acquittees, (5) revocation of conditional release status of insanity acquittees, and (6) additional areas of insanity defense research. Implications of the research for the insanity defense and cognate legal issues are proffered.