Teaching Courses Focused on Social Good

In this column we describe two courses that focus on the role of statistics in understanding social issues. The first is an introductory statistics course developed by Dr. Kendra Burbank at the University of Chicago where students learn statistical methods as they explore different aspects of the water crisis in Flint, Michigan. Then, we describe an intermediate-level service learning course taught by Dr. Judith Canner and Dr. Alana Unfried at California State University Monterey Bay University where students use statistics to consult with local nonprofits and learn how to take a data-driven approach to affect change. We conclude with resources for instructors interested in incorporating social issues in their courses.