Descriptive and Bivariate Statistics

A researcher is examining factors that influence reading scores among children at a school. The dataset DEL618_DHS618m1.sav contains 7 variables:

ID, gender: 1=male, 2=female, Social Studies, Math, Reading scores, Reading in Rank, Visual Acuity in Rank (Ordinal).

*Please refer to SPSS Commands for tips on analyzing data.

Your task:

Descriptive Statistics

Provide key descriptive statistics for each continuous and ordinal variable (mean, median, standard deviation) in a table format. Provide a frequency table for categorical variables. Briefly describe the results in your tables.

Bivariate Statistic and Regression

Compute multiple correlation coefficients and their p-values: (a) for the relationship between social studies and Math and Reading considered simultaneously; (b) the partial correlation coefficients for variables reading and Social studies when Gender is held constant; (c) the partial correlation coefficient for variables Math and Reading when Gender is held constant. Describe and interpret the results of these correlation coefficients and p-values.

What test is appropriate to measure the correlation between reading in rank and visual acuity in rank? Perform this test. Describe and interpret the results.

Perform two simple linear regressions: 1) social studies as a predictor of reading scores, and 2) math as a predictor of reading scores. Describe and interpret the results (including the coefficients). Include the linear regression equations.

Assignment Expectations

Your assignment will be graded according to the Quantitative Grading Rubric. (To see the rubric, go to Assessments>Rubrics. Click the arrow next to the rubric name and choose Preview.)

Length: Case assignments should be at least 3 pages (750 words) in length excluding tables.

References: Any references used should be from academic sources and cited using APA format.

Organization: Subheadings should be used to organize your paper according to question

Format: This assignment should be written in a scientific format (as in the “Results” section of a peer-reviewed study). APA format is required for all assignments at the PhD level. Refer to the following guidelines in presenting tables and results in APA format: 1. APA Table Guidelines, 2. Reporting Results. See Syllabus page for more information on APA format.

Grammar and Spelling: While no points are deducted for minor errors, assignments are expected to adhere to standard guidelines of grammar, spelling, punctuation, and sentence syntax. Points may be deducted if grammar and spelling impact clarity.

The following items will be assessed in particular:

Relevance—All content is connected to the question.

Precision—Specific questions are addressed. Calculations, statements, facts, and statistics are specific and accurate.

Depth of discussion—Points are presented and integrated.

Evidence—Statements are well supported with facts, statistics or references.

Logic—Presented discussion makes sense; conclusions are logically supported by premises, statements, or factual information.

Clarity—Writing is concise and understandable, and subjects are sufficiently described.

Objectivity—The use of first person and subjective bias are avoided.