Developing Numeric Confidence and Statistical Literacy to Support Health Risk Communication: A Short Education Intervention for Journalism Students

Given that the media can influence the public’s perception of health risk, journalists play a vital role in health risk communication. Numeracy and statistical literacy are important skills for this communication, yet research shows some journalism students lack these skills, a pattern also evident in broader journalism practice that limits critical engagement with contested statistical information. Drawing on self-efficacy theory, this study aimed to improve journalism students’ statistical literacy and numeric confidence through a short education intervention. Using a before-and-after study design, findings indicate some improvements in these skills, supported by qualitative feedback. Overall, the findings may guide pedagogical approaches that enhance responsible health reporting and self-efficacy in these areas.