Data, Analytics and Statistics Instruction (DASI) sessions for SEDSI 2016
The name of the Decision Sciences Institute Special Intrest Group was changed at the 2015 DSI meeting from Making Statistics More Effective for Schools of Business (MSMESB)
This page last updated on January 22, 2016 by Robert L. Andrews, Department of Supply Chain Management and Analytics, Virginia Commonwealth University
General information is available about the Data, Analytics and Statistics Instruction SIG within DSI and its predecessor Making Statistics More Effective in Schools of Business

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

General information is available about the Data, Analytics and Statistics Instruction SIG within DSI and its predecessor Making Statistics More Effective in Schools of Business