𝗙𝗘𝗔𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗘: "Gear up for your PR 2: Best ways to use your statistical formulas" by Don Stephen Carl Baclaan and Ashly Ayhen Jeniebre

Published by: Angel Pelleja

Date Published: September 18, 2023

Time Published: 12:09 PM

A new school year starts and a new batch of Grade 12 students will take the applied subject, Practical Research 2.  There are concepts that we need to improve our knowledge in the field of research, and one of it is knowing how to better use statistical methods and obtain the best possible results for your research.

These statistical methods have great function for the research, if used correctly. Now, let’s make your research accurate and reliable!

𝗥𝗲𝗴𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 

This studies the relationship between a dependent and an independent variable [1]. This also explains how a variable can influence the other variable, or simply cause and effect, suggesting that the result will depend on one or many factors.

Formula for Regression Analysis [2]:

Y = a+bx+e 

where:

Y - dependent variable

a - intercept

b - slope

e - residual 

Not only does Regression focus on the relationship between variables, it also allows the researchers to use it flexibly, compared to the common correlational analysis. However, like all good tools, it also comes with responsibility. Sometimes, it could also unravel more problem to ponder rather than solving them. 

𝗠𝗲𝗮𝗻

A set of data divided by the total number of data. It is also called ‘average’. It's a technique used to conduct the analysis. If Mean is applied, you can view the data quickly and determine the overall trend of the collection of data. 

Calculating the mean:

m = sum of all terms / total of all terms

where:

m - mean [3]

While there are no limitations to the number of data you want to find a mean for, the use of mean is highly recommended among large quantities and sets—it also most definitely efficient when used in applications such as Microsoft Excel. 

𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻

It is used to measure how widely distributed the data is from the mean. High standard deviation means that the data is widely spread from the mean, and a low standard deviation indicates that the data is in line with the given mean. It is also used in analyzing the spread of data points.

Formula for standard deviation [4]: 

σ = √(∑x−x̄)2/n) 

where:

σ - Standard Deviation

xi - Terms Given in the Data

x̄ - Mean

n - Total number of Terms

Some researchers may refer to this formula as the ‘most useful’ measuring tool. However, the use of this formula has very specific use, may limit your insights about the data and may easily be affected by the variables, producing an inaccurate outcome.

It is also important to use the most suitable statistical method for your upcoming research, so that the accuracy of your study and data is ensured. 

Nonetheless, with a clear purpose and adherence to academic regulations and standards, may all you student-researchers attain success in your studies this semester. 

REFERENCES:

[1] QuestionPro (n.d). 5 statistical analysis methods for research and analysis. https://www.questionpro.com/blog/statistical-analysis-methods/ 

[2] Srivastav, A. (n.d). Regression Analysis (Formula. https://www.wallstreetmojo.com/regression-analysis-formula/ 

[3] BYJU (n.d). Mean (Definition and Meaning), How to find the mean, formula, examples. https://byjus.com/maths/mean/#:~:text=Mean%20is%20the%20average%20of,observations%2FTotal%20number%20of%20observations) 

[4] Cuemath (n.d). Standard Deviation Formula. https://www.cuemath.com/data/standard-deviation