Able Construction: A Spreadsheet Activity for Teaching Bayes’ Theorem

Using classroom activities to motivate the teaching and learning of Bayes’ theorem is not new. However, many textbook exercises published simulations gloss over how requisite probabilities are determined. In our case study, Able Construction a fictional company hoping exploit historical bidding data inform its own strategy on municipal construction project. Unlike most other activities, we challenge students calculate necessary directly from given dataset. experience with implementing this in introductory business analytics courses at undergraduate- graduate-level, find that spreadsheet activity gives opportunity exercise their judgement regarding manipulation definition states nature. This autonomy analysis develops deeper appreciation for practical skills required possible careers after graduation, leads engaging discussions applicability practice.