Teaching students to estimate complex probabilities of board game events through simulation

Abstract

AbstractStudents are typically introduced to probability through calculating simple events like flipping a coin. While these calculations can be done by hand, more complex probabilistic events, both in class and in the real world, require the use of computers. In this paper, we introduce a new tool—an R shiny web app and associated CRAN package based on the board game “CamelUp”—to help students explore these probability calculations through simulation in a fun context. Through this app and in conjunction with the board game Camel Up, we present some sample activities for helping students better understand and make in‐game probabilistic decisions.