The Shape of Things to Come: The Computational Pictograph as a Bridge From Combinatorial Space to Outcome Distribution

This column will publish short (from just a few paragraphs to ten or so pages), lively and intriguing computer-related mathematics vignettes. These vignettes or snapshots should illustrate ways in which computer environments have transformed the practice of mathematics or mathematics pedagogy. They could also include puzzles or brain-teasers involving the use of computers or computational theory. Snapshots are subject to peer review. This snapshot introduces a computer-based representation and activity that enables students to simultaneously ‘‘see’’ the combinatorial space of a stochastic device (e.g., dice, spinner, coins) and its outcome distribution. The author argues that the ‘‘ambiguous’’ representation fosters student insight into probability.