The Mathematical Association of America (MAA) is holding a series of regional workshops for mathematicians who teach statistics but have little formal training in the subject. These workshops provide participants first-hand experiences of active learning strategies by which undergraduates can investigate elements of statistical thinking. Follow-up activities will support the workshop participants as they form a community, linked by electronic mail, in which they share ideas about teaching statistics. These workshops will introduce participants to: 1) the nature of statistical thinking, particularly concentrating on how statistical concepts and methods differ from mathematical ones; 2) hands-on activities through which students can participate actively in their discovery and understanding of statistical concepts and properties; 3) assessment practices which go beyond testing and grading to establish a dialogue between students and instructor that leads to both improved teaching and a more authentic assessment of students' understanding of statistics and data analysis; 4) technology not simply as a tool for analyzing data but also as a vehicle for active learning and as a resource for acquiring teaching materials.
