Statistical Journal of the IAOS - Volume 37, issue 3

Authors: Sen, Mitali | Azar, Derek

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Identifying strengths and limitations is crucial to building the statistical capacity of a national statistical office (NSO). The Tool for Assessing Statistical Capacity (TASC), developed by the U.S. Census Bureau, offers an efficient solution for statistical capacity assessments because it allows for one or two administrator(s) – who need not necessarily be expert in all census and survey operations – to obtain a comprehensive and objective picture of household-based census and survey operations at an NSO. Administering the TASC is cost effective and the results are widely accepted because of its participatory nature, making it an invaluable instrument for assessing …an NSOs readiness to conduct surveys and censuses. Results from the TASC are used to target training to build statistical capacity. This paper describes the foundational framework, modality of measurement, strengths, and limitations of the TASC. Show more

Keywords: Statistical capacity, assessment tool, TASC

DOI: 10.3233/SJI-210836

Citation: Statistical Journal of the IAOS, vol. 37, no. 3, pp. 793-803, 2021

Article Type: Other

Citation: Statistical Journal of the IAOS, vol. 37, no. 3, pp. 805-, 2021

Authors: Proden, Elena

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Statistical literacy is one of the main areas of work of the Global Network of Institutions for Statistical Training (GIST) established in 2017. While the scope of statistical literacy initiatives will range greatly from those intended for school children and teachers to those aimed at media representatives or general public, one of the areas where a dedicated Task Team of the GIST set out to undertake a more detailed analysis was related to the core data competencies for policy makers. The adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals by UN member States has led to a growing awareness around the importance …of timely, robust, quality and disaggregated data for informing public policies and decisions and providing a solid evidence to address a number of complex policy issues related to ensuring more equitable policy outcomes and more coherence decision-making across different dimensions of sustainable development and different levels of governance from global to national and local. This article presents the results of a survey conducted by the GIST Task Team on Statistical Literacy back in 2018 with the participation of policy makers from various UN Member States, reviews core data competencies for policy makers, presents the free, self-paced e-learning course developed by UN Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), UN Statistics Division and UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) with support from the Swiss Government and using UNITAR’s Quality Assurance Framework, and discusses the ongoing work of the GIST on the inventory of statistical literacy initiatives as a new product developed by the dedicated Task Team. Show more

Keywords: Statistical literacy, policy makers, data competencies, e-learning, SDGs, GIST

DOI: 10.3233/SJI-210858

Citation: Statistical Journal of the IAOS, vol. 37, no. 3, pp. 807-816, 2021

Authors: Navarre, Elwira | Lehtimäki, Heli | Zwick, Markus | Bavdaž, Mojca

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: In the fast-changing environment, the amount of available data is exploding and transforming it quickly into actionable information is not easy. Thus, reliable and comparable statistics are in increasingly high demand by the public, even more so in troubled times such as financial crisis and pandemics. However, crisis is also an exciting opportunity to tap into the interest of young people and harness their talent for working with official statistics. Two initiatives at the European level are already in place to advance education in official statistics. As production environment started to change with increasingly rapid evolution of technologies and …new data sources, Eurostat together with the European Statistical System (ESS) brought to life European Statistical Training Programme (ESTP) and European Master in Official Statistics (EMOS). This papers briefly describes the origin and the main characteristics of both models of training, the bridges that they build, and discusses the way ahead. Show more

Keywords: Training, partnership, stakeholders, skills, knowledge, courses, literacy

DOI: 10.3233/SJI-210837

Citation: Statistical Journal of the IAOS, vol. 37, no. 3, pp. 817-823, 2021

Authors: Pratesi, Monica | Campos, Pedro

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: After 12 years of EMOS experience it is time to open the discussion on the future of EMOS. This papers briefly describes the experience from the perspective of the Universities, trying also to describe the needs and role of the NSIs, Banks and other possible actors to join the network, and unlock the future. EMOS should reload (or evolute) to stay current and attractive. Statistical ’thinking’ evolved and a major change and challenge for EMOS is to pick up this trend in its cooperation with the universities.

Keywords: Official statistics, university and education, statistical literacy, data literacy and thinking

DOI: 10.3233/SJI-210865

Citation: Statistical Journal of the IAOS, vol. 37, no. 3, pp. 825-833, 2021

Authors: Kouadio, Hugues Kouassi

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The training offer of official statistics in statistical training institutes has been constantly evolving as it adapts to the statistical environment and technological developments. Based on a literature review and the mobilisation of curricula and programmes offered by statistical training centres in Africa, this paper presents the current situation of training in official statistics as well as the challenges to be faced. Despite harmonisation efforts, there are still differences between language areas and training types. Engineer and vocational statistical training are better suited to the needs of National Statistical Institutes than university training. It is essential that the training of …statisticians is strategically thought out so that they can be reactive and dynamic in the face of changes and upheavals they will be confronted with in the context of data revolution and big data. Their training should reinforce the statistical literacy dimension with a view to reducing the gap between producers and users. Show more

Keywords: Training institute of statistics, official statistics, Africa, curricula, STPA, Agrost, GIST, RESA

DOI: 10.3233/SJI-210838

Citation: Statistical Journal of the IAOS, vol. 37, no. 3, pp. 835-851, 2021

Authors: Forbes, Sharleen | Harraway, John

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: How should we teach the users of official statistics? Many government advisors lack adequate mathematical and statistical skills. The authors were part of different teams that developed a National Certificate of Official Statistics comprising four modules taught face-to-face with competency-based assessment that included a workplace project, and three free downloadable web apps in official statistics hosted on the International Statistical Literacy Project website. They also supplied draft content for a United Nations Institute of Training and Research (UNITAR) e-learning course Understanding data and statistics better – for more effective SDG decision making comprised of five self-teaching modules. Key common …elements in this progression from a country specific paper-based course to an international e-learning course targeted at the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, included: • establishing cooperative teams, including information technology and course design experts • de-mathematising statistical content, in favour of conceptual understanding • using visual tools, such as dynamic and interactive graphics, to interpret data • recreating as little material as possible with use of freely available internet tools. establishing cooperative teams, including information technology and course design experts de-mathematising statistical content, in favour of conceptual understanding using visual tools, such as dynamic and interactive graphics, to interpret data recreating as little material as possible with use of freely available internet tools. There were challenges to be overcome: how to make the content internationally applicable to an international audience; how to keep material up-to-date and relevant and how to provide appropriate formative and/or summative assessment. Show more

Keywords: Official statistics, Sustainable Development Goals, conceptual understanding, data visualisation, web apps

DOI: 10.3233/SJI-210811

Citation: Statistical Journal of the IAOS, vol. 37, no. 3, pp. 853-872, 2021

Authors: Thanopoulos, Athanasios C. | Karamichalakou, Christina

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT), the National Statistical Institute of Greece, as the guarantor of the quality of official statistics in Greece, has been pursuing, since 2016, an ambitious strategy aiming to foster Statistical Literacy, focusing on strengthening ties with citizens in their dual capacity both as providers of data and ultimately as users of statistics, and thus, operate as crucial enablers of a smoothly functioning virtuous circle of official statistics. Objectives include the development of an understanding of basic methodologies and tools used in official statistics, along with the awareness of its institutional foundations and core principles. …This critically contributes to the value of official statistics being spread and effectively communicated, making, at the same time, a convincing case for fact-based decision making in the daily lives of the main stakeholders. This article motivates the approach followed in developing a specific strategy on statistical literacy, outlines its philosophy and main objectives and browses through the array of initiatives and actions undertaken over the last five years. In addition, it explores the responsiveness of citizens to these initiatives and the extent to which these initiatives lead to an increased engagement of key targeted stakeholders. Show more

Keywords: Statistical literacy, statistical consciousness, official statistics

DOI: 10.3233/SJI-210832

Citation: Statistical Journal of the IAOS, vol. 37, no. 3, pp. 873-884, 2021

Article Type: Other

Citation: Statistical Journal of the IAOS, vol. 37, no. 3, pp. 885-, 2021

Authors: Damouras, Sotirios | Gibbs, Alison | MacFeely, Steve

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Statistics is undergoing what feels like an evolutionary jump, i.e., a period of rapid and sweeping developments brought about by dramatic shifts in its environment. The repercussions are felt strongly by official statistics, which operates at the forefront of societal and economic change. In this paper, we look at the implications of the recent developments for the training of official statisticians and highlight key knowledge areas for successfully navigating the emerging landscape. In addition, we employ the concept of adaptive expertise to help us identify three qualities that support the independent and lifelong development of practicing statisticians, and propose five …teaching strategies for fostering these qualities in the classroom. Show more

Keywords: Data revolution, statistics education, official statistical literacy, adaptive expertise

DOI: 10.3233/SJI-210851

Citation: Statistical Journal of the IAOS, vol. 37, no. 3, pp. 887-898, 2021

Authors: Kovacs, Peter | Kuruczleki, Eva | Kazar, Klara | Liptak, Lilla | Racz, Tamas

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: To act as a responsible member of a democratic society, everybody needs statistical literacy and practical knowledge on how to use statistical data, visualization, and methods. In the case of professions that use or produce statistical data the correct use of statistics and statistical thinking are also important. Practice and knowledge applicable in real life are also needed. To reach these requirements, using real-life problems, modern technologies (digital solutions, online tools) and up-to-date teaching methods tailored to the target audiences is crucial. Several papers show that the use of real problems, technology and modern teaching methods are more efficient than …the traditional frontal teaching method. In this study, we describe some new teaching methods, for instance problem-based learning, project-based learning, thinking-based learning, flipped classroom, gamification, new technological devices. We also discuss the combination of different methods and modern technology in action in the field of Statistics. The paper shares our developments, experiences, and lessons we learnt from classes. One of our main results is the idea that the use of modern teaching approaches leads to more practical and applicable knowledge; however, their success also depends on both the educators’ and the students’ time expenditure and attitude. Show more

Keywords: Active teaching and learning methods, problem-based learning, project-based learning, thinking-based learning, flipped classroom, gamification

DOI: 10.3233/SJI-210843

Citation: Statistical Journal of the IAOS, vol. 37, no. 3, pp. 899-919, 2021

Authors: Haensch, Anna-Carolina | Herklotz, Markus | Keusch, Florian | Kreuter, Frauke

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The International Program in Survey and Data Science (IPSDS) is an online educational program, which can be attended through the Joint Program in Survey Methodology (JPSM) at the University of Maryland (UMD) and a part-time Master of Applied Data Science & Measurement (MDM) at the University of Mannheim and Mannheim Business School (MBS). It is targeted towards and attended by working professionals involved or interested in data collection and data analysis including those working in official statistics. The program conveys competencies in the areas of data collection, data analysis, data storage, and data visualization. The faculty of the program includes …researchers and lecturers from both the University of Maryland and the University of Mannheim as well as other organizations such as destatis and Statistics Netherlands in the field of official statistics. The program was awarded the label of ‘European Master in Official Statistics (EMOS)’ under conditions in May 2021. In the article, we summarize the methodological and statistical competencies needed in official statistics and show how IPSDS covers this set of skills. We will present the flipped classroom design used for the IPSDS program and demonstrate that it is especially suited for students who are working professionals at the same time. Show more

Keywords: Graduate studies, online learning, flipped classroom, data competencies, lifelong learning, part-time study program

DOI: 10.3233/SJI-210833

Citation: Statistical Journal of the IAOS, vol. 37, no. 3, pp. 921-933, 2021

Authors: Carter, Jackie

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This paper presents an innovative model for developing data and statistical literacy in the undergraduate population through an experiential learning model developed in the UK. The national Q-Step (Quantitative Step change) programme (2013–2021) aimed to (i) create a step change in teaching undergraduate social science students quantitative research skills, and (ii) develop a talent pipeline for future careers in applied social research. We focus on a model developed at the University of Manchester, which has created paid work placement projects in industry, for students to practise their data and statistical skills in the workplace. We call these students data fellows . …Our findings have informed the development of the undergraduate curriculum and enabled reflection on the skills and software that we teach. Data fellows are graduating into careers in fields that would previously have been difficult to enter without a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) degree. 70% of data fellows to date are female, with 25% from disadvantaged backgrounds or under-represented groups. Hence the programme also addresses equality and diversity. The paper documents some of the successes and challenges of the programme and shares insight into non-STEM pipelines into social research careers that require data and statistical literacy, A major advantage of our approach is the development of hybrid data analysts, who are able to bring social science subject expertise to their research as well as data and statistical skills. Focusing on the value of experiential learning to develop quantitative research skills in professional environments, we provoke a discussion about how this activity could not only be sustained but also scaled up. Show more

Keywords: Experiential learning, work placements, data skills, innovative education, undergraduates, internships, talent pipeline, statistical training

DOI: 10.3233/SJI-210844

Citation: Statistical Journal of the IAOS, vol. 37, no. 3, pp. 935-950, 2021

Article Type: Other

Citation: Statistical Journal of the IAOS, vol. 37, no. 3, pp. 951-, 2021

Authors: Kanyanda, Shelton | Kouadio, Hugues | McGee, Kevin | Zezza, Alberto

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Household surveys remain the major source of official statistics for monitoring development policies particularly in developing countries. In the context of rapid developments in data needs, extensive methodological work, data processing and use at national and international levels and a remaining capacity gap despite efforts for statistical capacity building in last decade, it is critical for training centers to keep up to speed with international best practices. This paper show that the approach of the Centre for Development Data Training initiative (C4D2 Training Initiative) is highly effective and stand to have a long-term impact on household survey capacity in Africa …region. It is made of several components all of which aim to bolster capacity development in the region. It harmonizes and improves the quality and sustainability of training on household surveys through increased local capacity and greater dissemination of best practices, creates a network among participants and trainers to facilitate knowledge exchange on best practices as well as survey harmonization across countries. Taking advantage of benefits, the initiative should endeavor other regions subject to their interest and embrace the use of virtual and web-based training. Show more

Keywords: Household survey, RTCs, C4D2, capacity building, Africa

DOI: 10.3233/SJI-210850

Citation: Statistical Journal of the IAOS, vol. 37, no. 3, pp. 953-963, 2021

Authors: Soinne, Katri

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The national statistical institution of Finland (Statistics Finland) not only collects, processes, and publishes data, but also bears the responsibility for advising and training users of the service it provides. There are various training possibilities available, and many are used for teaching national accounts. Statistics Finland has offered courses for data users, school visits, university courses, and material on Internet pages. International courses as well as internal training have been provided. Technological change brings new possibilities for training and we need to consider the best options for different situations. The feedback received from earlier training is important for development.

Keywords: University courses, international course, feedback

DOI: 10.3233/SJI-210845

Citation: Statistical Journal of the IAOS, vol. 37, no. 3, pp. 965-975, 2021

Authors: Gennari, Pietro | Bizier, Valerie | Petracchi, Cristina | Navarro, Dorian Kalamvrezos

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Global Indicator Framework (GIF) has multiplied training needs due to the large number of new indicators to be monitored by countries, whereas COVID-19-related social distancing restrictions have provided an unexpected springboard for the proliferation of cutting-edge virtual training tools and modalities. This has exposed a panoply of new data-related skills needed by contemporary statisticians, and therefore the types of training that could be most appropriate for acquiring these skills. This paper analyses the changing context and nature of training, with particular reference to the experience of FAO as a custodian agency for a large share …of SDG indicators. The combination of different learning modalities, appropriately blended into a coherent learning programme, is shown to have the greatest impact, with one modality reinforcing the strengths and dampening the limitations of another. Show more

Keywords: Statistical capacity development, statistical training, blended learning, statistical capacity assessment, new data skills

DOI: 10.3233/SJI-210853

Citation: Statistical Journal of the IAOS, vol. 37, no. 3, pp. 977-995, 2021

Authors: Hoffmeister, Onno | Adrian, Barbara D’Andrea | Assaf, Mark | Barnat, Nour | Chantrel, Dominique | Kulaga, Tomasz | Muryawan, Markie

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: We report on five years of capacity building designed to improve the skills of producers and users of international trade statistics all over the world, with a particular focus on developing countries. This training programme is a joint activity between UNCTAD, UNSD and WTO, based on an innovative (Blended Learning) approach, combining e-learning and face-to-face workshops. It is adapted to local needs, uses the pool of experts working at international organisations, and ensures continuous review and enhancement of the applied methods and tools. The results reviewed in this paper confirm that the program has reached the target population. Furthermore, it …has global coverage and is gender-balanced. During the five years since the programme has begun, participation in the courses has increased considerably; success rates have risen from 72% to 79% and satisfaction rates from 77% to 88%. Plans for the future include delivering training in additional languages, increasing interactivity, and adding new components addressing specific training needs. Show more

Keywords: Capacity building, training, international trade statistics

DOI: 10.3233/SJI-210854

Citation: Statistical Journal of the IAOS, vol. 37, no. 3, pp. 997-1007, 2021

Authors: Carter, Jackie | Méndez-Romero, Rafael Alberto | Jones, Pete | Higgins, Vanessa | Samartini, Andre Luiz Silva

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: EmpoderaData – from the Spanish word empoderar ‘to empower’ – is a partnership research project between the University of Manchester (UK), Fundação Getulio Vargas (Brazil), Universidad del Rosario (Colombia) and Data-Pop Alliance (US and France). The project builds upon a successful data-driven, research-led paid internship programme in the UK (Q-Step) which enables undergraduate social science students to practise data skills through immersion in the workplace. Two-hundred and fifty students have benefited from the Q-Step programme in six years, many graduating into analytical careers in civic society and industry. EmpoderaData aims to build on this experiential learning initiative by developing …a data fellowship programme in order to foster and develop data literacy skills in Latin America, led by the need to address society’s most pressing issues and using the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). EmpoderaData Phase 1 explored whether the internship model would have relevance and usefulness within the context of three Latin American case study countries (Brazil, Colombia and Mexico). The team set out to establish a baseline of the state of data literacy and existing training programs in Brazil, Colombia and Mexico. As part of a ‘Big Data for the Common Good’ event, a workshop was held in São Paulo with thirty participants representing data literacy advocacy or policy formation and drawn from civil society, academia, the private and public sector. The main conclusions from this first phase are: (1) the most requested data literacy training need is for basic skills, including introductory statistics, foundation data analysis and methodological skills; (2) paid data fellowship models are acknowledged as a useful intervention; and (3) the notion of a ‘hybrid’ professional to build data literacy capacities for ‘social science’ purposes provides a practical way forward. In the EmpoderaData Phase 2 project our focus was on Colombia to explore the challenges and opportunities of developing a pilot data fellowship model there. Engaging with national, regional and international capacity development efforts, this highlighted a demand for partnerships between universities and organisations working on the social challenges represented by the SDGs. Partnerships ensure that the in-country data literacy pipeline is strengthened in a home-grown, self-sustaining way, producing a steady flow of data literate graduates into the institutions and sectors where critical data skills are most needed. We report on how the EmpoderaData project is exploring working with students studying Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) degrees at the Universidad del Rosario, to improve the application of statistical methods to the social sciences. The aim is to strengthen STEM skills and develop youth empowerment across Colombia, urban and rural areas, to improve the quality of statistical education at the national level, and support the skills needed to deliver the SDGs. In parallel, the Fundação Getulio Vargas (FGV) Business School in São Paulo agreed to trial the work-placement programme in their undergraduate business and public policy degrees through a programme entitled ‘The FGV Q-Step Center to improve quantitative skills in undergraduate business students’. This two-year-long funded study will enable us to explore the transferability of the internship model from the UK to Brazil. The paper will discuss how the programme was established (following the lessons learned from EmpoderaData), explain how this model will be implemented in FGV, especially paying attention to how the curriculum will develop to support it, and how the impact of the programme will be monitored. The knowledge exchange generated from this study will complement the research conducted through the EmpoderaData project. The paper will cover the progress of the EmpoderaData project and FGV-Q-Step Center to date and explore how we are developing these initiatives, the challenges we have faced, and how through partnership working we are developing capacity building in statistical and data skills training. Show more

Keywords: Sustainable development goals, data skills, statistical literacy, educational innovation, internships

DOI: 10.3233/SJI-210842

Citation: Statistical Journal of the IAOS, vol. 37, no. 3, pp. 1009-1021, 2021

Authors: van der Loo, Mark P.J.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Computing with data is at the hart of the activities statistical office. Yet, the area of technical computing often falls between the two stools of data analysts and IT developers. In this paper we analyze the importance of computational skills in the Generic Statistical Business Process Model. Next, we give an overview of computational topics that are of importance to the statistical office. Many of these skills turn out to be of highly technical nature. After this, we try to provoke a wider discussion on the role of technical computing by 1) introducing the role of the Research Software Engineer …into the field of official statistics and 2) propose a six semester bachelor’s curriculum in official statistics. Show more

DOI: 10.3233/SJI-210862

Citation: Statistical Journal of the IAOS, vol. 37, no. 3, pp. 1023-1036, 2021

Article Type: Other

Citation: Statistical Journal of the IAOS, vol. 37, no. 3, pp. 1037-, 2021

Article Type: Other

DOI: 10.3233/SJI-210867

Citation: Statistical Journal of the IAOS, vol. 37, no. 3, pp. 1039-1043, 2021