Enriching the statistics learning experience with D3.js interactive animations: Insurance applications of Markov chains

Antonio Fernández Morales

Authors

Antonio Fernández Morales Universidad de Málaga

Keywords:

Animación interactiva, simulación, seguros, formación actuarial, Interactive animation, simulation, insurance, actuarial education

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to explore the possibilities that online interactive animations offer to enhance the statistics learning experience in the field of actuarial education. A particular type of animation, based on the D3.js JavaScript library, has been chosen due to its powerful visualisation components and natural treatment of transitions. The latter is especially adequate for the graphical visualisation of Markov chains. Some insurance applications of discrete time Markov chains are simulated using this visual framework and used in a course of Stochastic Processes of the MSc in Actuarial Science at the University of Málaga. Finally, the results of the experience along with the outcomes of a survey conducted at the end of the course are analysed, revealing the main strengths of this approach perceived by the students.

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El objetivo de este artículo consiste en la exploración de las posibilidades que las animaciones interactivas pueden ofrecer para enriquecer la experiencia de aprendizaje de Estadística en el ámbito de la educación actuarial. Un tipo particular de animación, basado en la librería Javascript D3.js, ha sido seleccionado para ello por sus potentes componentes de visualización, así como por su tratamiento natural de las transiciones. Esta segunda característica es de vital importancia para la visualización gráfica de las cadenas de Markov. Algunas aplicaciones de las cadenas de Markov en el campo de los seguros se simulan usando este entorno y se han aplicado en el curso de procesos estocásticos del Máster en Ciencias Actuariales y Financieras de la Universidad de Málaga. Finalmente, se analizan los resultados de la experiencia, incluyendo los de una encuesta realizada al final del curso, que revelan las principales fortalezas del enfoque adoptado, tal como han sido percibidos por los estudiantes.

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