Module 1.3

Question 1

Research data can be gathered in what two ways?

Answer 1

through existing information

through direct collection of information by conducting surveys, sending out questionnaires, performing experimental testing, etc.

Question 2

What are the two basic types of statistical studies?

Answer 2

1. experimental
2. observational

Question 3

Describe an Experimental Study

Answer 3

Researchers manipulate (by controlling and changing) variables to see if one thing causes another

Question 4

Describe an Observational Study

Answer 4

• Researcher collects information not by influencing the variables in a study, but by simply observing the variable in action
• the observation can be active or passive
• passive is when researcher has no interaction with the subject but collects data from a distance
• active observation is when researcher interacts with subject (i.e.; handing out a survey or questionnaire)

Question 5

What is a data error?

Answer 5

A data error can be something like transposing two numbers when entering a number into a spreadsheet or a respondent to a questionnaire not understanding the question

outliers

Question 6

What is an outlier?

Answer 6

When a value for a particular variable is out of place, by being either too small or too large