We need more nonsignificant but readily understood examples in our classes. This correlation/regression example from Information is Beautiful demonstrates that the calories in delicious caffeinated drinks do not correlate with the calories in the drink. Caffeine has zero calories. The things that make our drinks creamy and sweet may have calories. Easy peasy, readily understood, and this example gives your students a chance to think about and interpret non-significant, itty-bitty effect size findings.
Aside: Watch your language when using this example. We need calories to stay alive and none of these drinks, in and of themselves, are good or bad. Our students are exposed to way too much of that sort of language and thinking about food and their bodies. What they choose to drink or eat is none of our business. When I share this visual, I omit the information on the far right (exercise) and far left (calorically equivalent foods). It distracts from the lesson and, again, frames food choices in a way I'm not comfortable with.
Comments
Post a Comment