Analytical proofs of expected value and variance of the main functions of continuous probability distributions, with examples of their applications

Abstract

The present work proposes the design of mathematical problems, which allow the adequate understanding of mathematical concepts of probability for its correct interpretation and later application in the resolution of probabilistic problems. For the development of this work we rely on the theory of didactic situations of Brousseau (1997) and Sadovsky (2005). We believe that new materials and didactic models of this type have great educational potential because they encourage the analysis and understanding of various probability problems (Panizza, 2003). Accurate communication between teachers and students in the approach, interpretation, resolution, and testing of probability problems is of vital importance. The software used for this purpose is the MATHEMATICA program, a tool that facilitates the writing of formulas and calculations, as well as the construction of graphs, through a friendly interface, facilitating the self-taught work of the student and encouraging the development of analysis skills and problem solving. We believe that these materials will contribute to the teaching and learning processes of probability at higher education levels.