Educational pathway example

One of the common uses of Bayesian probability and networks is in educational research. Course sequencing involves building upon prior knowledge, and students taking courses conditional on prior knowledge must first obtain that prior knowledge before they can succeed in the course at hand. Prerequisite courses allow professors to require students to take certain courses before taking their courses. Entry to university and then to graduate programs is conditional on successful completion of exams at the previous level of education. Thus, education is a field in which Bayesian networks arise naturally. Let’s dive into an example.

Outcomes in education

Many outcomes in education are the culmination of the long sequence of courses students take. For instance, in South Africa and the United States, a student hoping to practice law must take many courses and take a final examination before being able to practice law independently. Passing the examination...