Inferential Statistics & Trend Analysis Part I
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Questions and Answers

What is the main idea behind the three observations presented in the text?

  • To illustrate the concept of causation in unrelated trends (correct)
  • To demonstrate the importance of correlation in scientific research
  • To highlight the limitations of statistical analysis in determining causality
  • To showcase the effectiveness of empirical research in establishing relationships
  • What is a possible explanation for the observed relationship between two trends?

  • There is a feedback loop between the two variables
  • A third variable is causing the apparent relationship (correct)
  • The trends are causally related, with one causing the other
  • The relationship is due to chance and there is no underlying connection
  • What is the key takeaway from the rule 'correlation does not imply causation'?

  • There is always a third variable underlying correlated trends
  • Causation can never be established through correlation
  • Correlation is necessary but not sufficient for causation (correct)
  • Correlation is a sufficient condition for establishing causation
  • What is the purpose of well-designed empirical research, according to the text?

    <p>To establish causation between variables</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the author's main concern when presenting the three observations?

    <p>The danger of misinterpreting correlations as causal relationships</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Independent and Dependent Variables

    • Independent variable (X): the variable that is changed, controlled in the experiment, and is not affected by other variables
    • Synonyms: predictors, factors, treatment variables, explanatory variables, input variables
    • Dependent variable (Y): the variable being measured, explained, or predicted, and its values depend on other variables
    • Synonyms: outcome or response variable

    Examples of Independent and Dependent Variables

    • Independent variable: Time spent sleeping before the exam
      • Dependent variable: Test Score
    • Independent variable: Consumption of fast food
      • Dependent variable: Blood Pressure
    • Independent variable: the amount of caffeine consumed
      • Dependent variable: Sleep
    • Independent variable: length of work week
      • Dependent variable: rate of employees quitting

    Association vs. Causation

    • Association does not imply causation
    • Causation can only be inferred from a randomized experiment
    • A strong statistical relationship between two variables does not necessarily mean that one variable causes the other

    Correlation vs. Causation

    • Correlation: a statistical relationship between two variables, but does not imply causation
    • Rule: correlation does not imply causation
    • Possible explanations for correlations:
      • Random chance
      • A third, lurking variable that affects both variables
    • Well-designed empirical research, including randomization, controlled experiments, and predictive models with multiple variables, can establish causation

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    Description

    Learn about inferential statistics and trend analysis with Dr. Krisztina Soreg. This quiz covers the basics of independent and dependent variables in statistical models.

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