Getting started with SPSS

5 Obtaining descriptive statistics

Activity 4

0h 20m

This activity demonstrates how a simple dataset can be used to produce some basic statistics. You will see how the data from a simple experiment can be described in a number of different ways.

The experiment used in this simulation compares the effects of reading from text that is printed on different types of coloured paper. There are three variables to consider:

  • paper;

  • the number of words read;

  • the memory score.

There are two types of paper in the experiment: white and yellow.

Hint

You may find it helpful to be able to define the differences between:

  • a variable;

  • a dependent variable;

  • an independent variable.

Also, you may want to consider how important the size of your sample is when trying to draw conclusions from your statistics.

Be prepared to explore the following statistical results:

  • N

  • Range

  • Minimum

  • Maximum

  • Mean

  • Standard deviation

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