DATA HANDLING AND ANALYSIS
"Data Handling and Analysis: From Descriptive Statistics to Meta-Analysis"
Explore the basics of data handling and analysis in psychology, including descriptive statistics, measures of central tendency (mean, median, mode), measures of dispersion (range, variance, standard deviation), and the differences between qualitative and quantitative data. Learn how psychologists use meta-analysis to combine and interpret findings across multiple studies. Perfect for students seeking to strengthen their grasp of psychological research methods.
DISCREET AND CONTINUOUS DATA
CONTINUOUS AND CATEGORICAL DATA
Data in psychology can be categorised as continuous or categorical (also called discrete). Continuous data refers to numerical values that can take any value within a range, such as height, weight, or reaction time. It is measured on a scale and often analysed using means or standard deviations.
Categorical data, on the other hand, involves distinct categories or groups. Examples include gender, ethnicity, or types of therapy. This data is non-numerical and is often summarised using frequencies or percentages.
Understanding the distinction is key to choosing the right statistical tests and interpreting psychological research effectively.