Exam 2 Lecture 3: Survey Research

Question 1

Inferential Statistics

Answer 1

The body of statistical computations relevant to making inferences from findings based on sample observations to some large population.

Question 2

What are the two cautions about making inferences as discussed in class?

Answer 2

1. ) The sample must be drawn from the population about which inferences are being made
2. ) The inferential statistics assume several things, including simple random sampling and 100% completion rate.

Question 3

Statistical significance

Answer 3

A general term referring to the likelihood that the relationship observed in a sample could be attributed to sampling error alone.

“Is the pattern within this data real? Or is it nothing more than the result of a sampling error?”

Question 4

Tests of Statistical Significance

Answer 4

A class of statistical computations that indicate the likelihood that the relationship observed between variables in a sample can be attributed to sampling error alone.

Question 5

Level of significance

Answer 5

In the contexts of tests of statistical significance, the degree of likelihood that an observed, empirical relationship could be attached to a sampling error.

Question 6

Linear regression analysis

Answer 6

A form of statistical analysis that seeks the equation for the straight line that best describes the relationship between two conclusions variables.
-Common in surveys, dependent variable is always continuous
Ex: How reason effects creativity

(see graph in photo roll)

Question 7

Multiple regression analysis

Answer 7

A form of statistical analysis that seeks the equation representing the impact of two or more independent variables on a single dependent variable.
[How reason and race effect creativity]

Question 8

Stuctural equation modeling

Answer 8

Allows us multiple steps all at once [used in surveys]

Example: Media Use ——> Social Capital ——> Health Outcomes
[does media use effect social capital? in turn does social capital effect health outcomes]

Question 9

Factor Analysis

Answer 9

Putting a series of items in an equation and testing how well they fit together to make one concept. [used in surveys]

Question 10

Units of analysis

Answer 10

the respondents targeted with a survey.