The use of descriptive statistics can be an effective way to analyze collected data in attempting to solve a problem or understand why a particular issue is taking place. Solution based problem solving can use descriptive statistics to resolve the problem or generate ideas to be more efficient at the task at hand. We will look at an example of how descriptive statistics can be used to verify the efficacy of a proposed educational solution.

For the past couple of years, freshman students at the University have been having difficulties passing their online Algebra I course. After interviewing students, it became evident that there were a significant amount of students that are not only failing the final, but that are having difficulties understanding and using the course concepts...