Re: Red Beads

[Chris Game <chrisgame@bigfoot.com>]

I see some posts to the list about a simulator for the red bead 
experiment. I wonder what this will show that is not apparent from 
the statistics? The sampling model for the experiment is relatively 
trivial, and most students can cope with the maths.

This raises a point I've often wondered - what is the training value 
of the experiment? The results are (statistically) predictable and 
any variation from them is usually the result of an imperfect 
sampling paddle or physical differences between the two colours of 
bead. Of course it shows random variations can affect processes, but 
 this is (generally) obvious.

Is there anything more to it? What is the training value to justify 
the time spent on running the trials and so on?

Perhaps people can tell me how the attitudes and thinking of the 
students/trainees is changed after a typical session involving the 
experiment?

Chris Game.