Teaching basic data literacy through Python: Integrating basic computer science and Mathematics for lower secondary students

Abstract

This conceptual paper proposes an interdisciplinary pedagogical approach to teaching basic data literacy to lower secondary students by combining elements from the Basic Computer Science (BCS) and Mathematics syllabi in Malaysia's KSSM curriculum. Motivated by the growing importance of digital skills and real-world data analysis, this conceptual paper aims to address the limited exposure students have to data handling and interpretation in current classroom practice. The proposed method uses Python to introduce concepts such as data preprocessing, data visualization, and basic statistical analysis, with example tasks and hypothetical datasets to demonstrate how the approach can be implemented. Although the approach has not yet been implemented in classroom settings, it is designed to align with syllabus standards and promote cross-curricular connections. No student feedback or empirical results are reported in this paper. Instead, it presents a pedagogical approach that makes data literacy accessible, engaging, and practically relevant for young learners.