Data Discussion 2

Prior to beginning work on this discussion forum, read Chapters 3 and 4 of your textbook. Design a study that has a false correlation caused by lurking variable. Read the example study, and to learn more information about this concept.

In your discussion, you'll dive into the concept of correlation, causation, and lurking variables. To demonstrate this, I performed this fascinating study over the summer where I learned that taller people are better at math than short people. I know you may not believe me, but it's true. Let me prove it to you. By the end of this video, I will have you convinced that our results are accurate. What are the various aspects of math that people need to understand? For an example, counting, addition, subtraction, fractions, decimals, and finally, geometry and algebra. We can all agree that this is the progression of mathematical ability for the average student. On our y-axis, we'll plot heights. How much mathematical ability does a person have when they are 1 foot tall? None, they're a baby. When a person's 2 feet tall, they can probably count to 10. A person who's 3 feet tall should be able to add and subtract. At 4 feet tall, they should be able to perform fractions and decimals. At 5 feet tall, they should be able to complete algebra and geometry problems. Looking at our chart, the data clearly shows that people who are taller are better at math. But what's the problem with my study? Age. Age was never mentioned in my study. By leaving out age, I'm leaving out a confounding or lurking variable. While this is a simple example, this happens often in real life studies. This is why we need to check the reliability of our studies and consider any lurking variables that may not have been considered when conducting the study. In this week's discussion, you will design a similar study that has a false correlation caused by other variables. 

Guided Response: Your response should be a minimum of 300 words in length.