Enhancing statistical literacy and decision-making skills among nigerian university students

Abstract This study examined the role of statistical literacy in enhancing decision-making skills among the Nigeria university students in higher education. Specifically, the study determined the level of statistical literacy among students, investigated its influence on decision-making skills, and explored its relationship with students’ ability to interpret and use data. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, and a sample of 159 undergraduate students was drawn from three universities in Nigeria. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire titled Statistical Literacy and Decision-Making Skills Questionnaire (SLDMSQ) and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The findings revealed that a majority of students (71%) demonstrated a high level of statistical literacy, while 29% showed low competence. The results further indicated that statistical literacy positively influenced students’ decision-making skills, with an average of 69% of students demonstrating improved decision-making across the institutions. Additionally, a strong positive relationship was found between statistical literacy and students’ ability to interpret and use data effectively. The study concluded that statistical literacy is a critical factor in promoting data-driven decision-making and recommended the integration of practical, data-based teaching approaches in higher education. Keywords: Statistical literacy, decision-making, data interpretation, higher education, university students