Why are data collection and analysis important in early math?
When children collect and analyze data, they're integrating several mathematical skills to answer questions and solve real-world problems. For example, to answer the question, "What is the most preferred color in our classroom?," children need to ask their classmates what their favorite color is (collect data), sort and organize their findings (classification), and count how many are in each category (counting and cardinality). Children can then represent their findings in simple charts or graphs for all to see and discuss! It is important for young childen to have lots of opportunities to think systematically about questions and answers that are relevant to their lives and interests. These early experiences provide a foundation for later data learning using technology, models, and simulations. Check out our sorting games and suggested readings to enagage children in playful expeirences with sorting, counting, and describing data!
