More detailed session descriptions can be obtained by clicking on links for
session titles
Presentations can be downloaded by clicking on links for the presenter(s).
Improving Quantitative and Statistical Instruction
3:00 PM Wednesday, February 17, Tidewater B, Session chair: Bob Andrews, Virginia
Commonwealth University
Abstract: Panelists
address a variety of potential instructional improvements that include: considering
the importance of student attitude, ways to help students internalize and take
ownership of statistical topics being taught, focusing applications on the student's
discipline with a discussion of teaching to a finance audience, and using internet
based technology to assist with instruction. Audience members are encouraged
to join in the discussion of these topics.
Presenters and Panelists:
Robin Snyder, Robin Snyder
Joe Van Matre, University of Alabama Birmingham
Ping Wang, James Madison University
Steve Silver, Citadel
Addressing Challenges for Teaching Business Statistics
8:45 AM Thursday, February 18, Tidewater B, Session chair: Bob Andrews, Virginia
Commonwealth University
Abstract: Session will address teaching in large classes, updating
course content to ensure that students will be prepared to make sense of data
that they will be encountering to guide business decision making, transitioning
from having students merely learn a statistical procedure to problem solving and
the changing role that introductory statistics courses play in a business program
due to the rising use of business analytics. Audience members are encouraged to
join in the discussion of these topics.
Presenters and Panelists:
Pam Burch, Virginia Commonwealth University
Carl Betterton, The Citadel
Kim Melton, University of North Georgia
Weiyong Zhang, Old Dominion University
IBM's Watson Analytics
1:30 PM Thursday, February 18, Tidewater B, Session chair: Bob Andrews, Virginia
Commonwealth University
Abstract: This session will consist of an introduction to Watson Analytics,
an all-in-one tool unlike the traditional analytics tools in the academic marketplace.
The session will demonstrate how it can be used to introduce students to predictive
analytics without learning deep analytics tools like SAS, SPSS or R.
Presenter:
Wesley Strom, IBM
From Introductory Statistics to Analytics
3 PM Thursday, February 18, Tidewater B, Session chair: Bob Andrews, Virginia
Commonwealth University
Abstract: An introductory statistics course class is required of nearly all undergraduate
students and in analytics-oriented world it should lay the foundation for statistical thinking
and an appreciation of data-based decision making. This session offers suggestions on how data
analysis software to help students move from introductory statistics to analytics courses.
Suggested procedures and techniques will be demonstrated using JMP statistical software.
Presenter:
Mia Stephens, JMP
What Should be Included in Business Statistics to Prepare Students for the World of Data-driven Analytics?
4:30 PM Thursday, February 18, Tidewater B, Session chair: Bob Andrews, Virginia
Commonwealth University
Abstract: Business statistics should include more than covering a set of topics from a textbook.
Students should also develop some skills and acquire knowledge of selected data analysis tools.
Panelists will lead an open discussion of topics, analysis tools and skills that should be included
in business statistics to enable students to function effectively in a world that relies on
data-driven decision making.
Presenters and Panelists:
Hope Baker, Kennesaw State University
Joan Donohue, University of South Carolina
Tracy Rishel, The Citadel
Wilma Andrews, Virginia Commonwealth University
What should be in an Analytics Program or Class?
8:45 AM on Friday, February 19, Tidewater B, Session chair: Bob Andrews, Virginia
Commonwealth University
Abstract: Analytics is a hot topic with numerous sources forecasting
that the future demand for individuals with analytics skills will exceed the
supply. Universities are considering how analytics offerings can be included
in their program offerings to provide better job opportunities for their graduates.
The session will focus on experiences in creating an analytics course and in
determining the curriculum for a degree component in analytics. Session leaders
have a variety of experiences ranging from the undergraduate to graduate level.
Audience members will be encouraged to share their experience and enter into
discussion about analytics courses and curriculum.
Presenters and Panelists:
James Bradley, William and Mary
Kellie Keeling, University of Denver
Mia Stephens, JMP
Bob Andrews, Virginia Commonwealth University
Weiyong Zhang, Old Dominion University
What is the Role of Analytics in Doing Business?
10:15 AM on Friday, February 19, Tidewater B, Session chair: Bob Andrews, Virginia
Commonwealth University
Abstract: In this session the panelists will describe the current role of analytics
in their respective businesses. They will also share their vision of the future of analytics and
the knowledge and skills they look for when hiring individuals. They will spend time answering questions from the audience.
Presenters and Panelists:
Karen Bernhart, Capital One
Mervyn Wright, Altria