Questions and Answers
What are variables in quantitative research?
Measurable characteristics that change in value.
What is a continuous variable?
A variable that can take an infinite number of values within a population.
Which of the following is NOT a type of variable?
What is the difference between nominal and ordinal variables?
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A discrete variable can be divided into fractions.
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What type of variable is socio-economic status?
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A variable that has a clear definition of zero is called a ______ variable.
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Give an example of a nominal variable.
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Which of the following is an example of a discrete variable?
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What is a dichotomous variable?
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Study Notes
Introduction to Variables in Quantitative Research
- Variables are central concepts in research, representing measurable characteristics that can change in value.
- They differ across characteristics, individuals, groups, and over time.
Characteristics of Variables
- Anything that can take on different numerical or categorical values can be considered a variable.
- Examples include sex (male or female) and socio-economic status (ranging from zero earnings to billions).
Types of Variables
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Continuous Variables: Can take an infinite number of values within a range (e.g., age, height, temperature).
- Interval Variables: Measure differences between values without a true zero (e.g., temperature differences).
- Ratio Variables: Have a defined zero indicating the absence of the variable (e.g., height, weight).
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Discrete Variables: Have a limited number of distinct values that cannot be subdivided (e.g., sex, number of children).
- Nominal Variables: Categorical without a quantitative value and no order (e.g., eye color, religion).
- Dichotomous Variables: A specific nominal variable with two categories (e.g., male/female).
- Ordinal Variables: Categorical with two or more categories that can be ranked (e.g., survey responses like "Never," "Sometimes," "Always").
- Rankings do not imply equal distances in the attributes being measured.
- Nominal Variables: Categorical without a quantitative value and no order (e.g., eye color, religion).
Additional Types of Variables
- Dependent Variables: Outcomes that are measured in response to changes in independent variables.
- Independent Variables: Factors that are manipulated or measured to observe their effect on dependent variables.
- Confounding Variables: Variables that may influence the outcome without being measured.
- Control Variables: Variables that are kept constant to accurately assess the relationship between the independent and dependent variable.
- Latent Variables: Variables that are not directly observed but are inferred (e.g., intelligence).
- Manifest Variables: Variables that can be directly measured.
- Extraneous Variables: Any variable other than the independent variable that could affect the dependent variable.
Importance of Variables in Research
- Understanding different types of variables enhances the research's validity and reliability.
- Proper identification and management of variables are crucial for accurate data analysis and interpretation.
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Description
This quiz explores the concept of variables in quantitative research. It covers definitions, types, and the significance of variables in various research scenarios. By understanding variables, participants can enhance their research skills and comprehension of measurable characteristics.
