Two Applications of Venn Diagrams
Authors
Glenn Waddell, Jr., North Valleys High School, Reno
Robert J. Quinn, Professor of Education, University of Nevada, Reno
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to propose that area proportional Venn diagrams be used to a
greater extent than they are currently.
The Article
This article illustrates the use of area proportional Venn diagrams and proposes that this type of
Venn diagram be used to a larger degree than it is currently used. The authors provide
examples in their discussion that explain the advantages of this type of Venn diagram. The
authors suggest that these area proportional Venn diagrams are easy to read and show the
relationships between an assortment of events in a clear and direct manner.
What this Means for the Field
An increased use of area proportional Venn diagrams will be helpful to students as they are
clear and easy to read. Students are able, at a minimum, to roughly estimate the proportions
used to construct such Venn diagrams. If there is knowledge of the relative frequency of the
studied corresponding events then using area proportional Venn diagrams allows others to
more easily grasp the underlying proportions related to the events studied.
Citation
Waddell, Jr., G., & Quinn, R. J. (2011). Two applications of Venn diagrams. Teaching Statistics,
33(2). 46-48.
Contact
Dr. Robert J. Quinn: 775-682-7526; [email protected] or visit www.unr.edu/education