Deck 10: Methods for Analyzing Data

Question 1

Explain autocorrelation and why its presence is an issue for the use of parametric statistical analyses.

Answer 1

Suggested answer points:Autocorrelation refers to the tendency of observations to correlate with other observations (rather than being truly independent observations of the dependent variable). In single-subject research, one often expects to find trends in data which would indicate the presence of autocorrelation. A lag or time series analysis can definitively establish the presence or absence of autocorrelation. Its presence then precludes the use of parametric statistics because of the assumption that data points are independent of one another.

Question 2

Summarize and explain the advantages and disadvantages of qualitative analysis in single-subject research studies.

Answer 2

Suggested answer points:For qualitative research, personal interpretation of events is important. Researchers in single-subject research studies are familiar with the subjects as well as personally involved in the study. Qualitative approaches often necessitate the ability to change the direction or focus of data collection in mid-study, which may be needed in a single-subject study. Finally, the interpretation of the researcher is crucial to the success of a single-subject study. The major limitation of qualitative approaches to analysis is the time demand. In order to obtain enough data for a thorough qualitative analysis, the baseline and intervention phases may require extension, thus changing the real-world nature and application of the study. Finally, most special educators do not have the resources or training in qualitative methods to successfully carry out such a study.

Question 3

Mixed methods research would include _______________________.

A)quantitative methods
B)qualitative methods
C)cumulative methods
D)both quantitative and qualitative methods

Answer 3

D

Question 4

You should use visual analysis when:

A)the data are not graphically depicted.
B)the researcher wishes to make formative and summative analyses.
C)when continuous numerical data are not gathered.
D)All of these are correct.

Question 5

A type __________ error is when the researcher infers there is a significant intervention effect when, in fact, there is not one.

A)I
B)II
C)effect
D)criterion

Question 6

Explain how change in level and trend from baseline to intervention phases are immediate indicators of a potentially successful intervention.

Question 7

Changes in the direction of the data path between baseline and intervention phases are called ____________________.

A)directional changes
B)immediate changes in level
C)correlations
D)trend changes

Question 8

This parametric procedure is used to test for mean performance differences (typically across phases):

A)time series analysis.
B)Tukey's mean test.
C)t test or ANOVA.
D)None of these are correct.

Question 9

Visual analysis may be applied primarily to inspect changes ______________________.

A)within a phase or condition
B)across phases or conditions
C)within and across phases or conditions
D)None of these are correct

Question 10

The primary advantage to visual analysis is that it:

A)is simple to use.
B)is sufficient for revealing strong intervention effects.
C)can include descriptive statistical analysis.
D)requires the researcher to look beyond the data to consider outliers.

Question 11

_____________ is determined by examining the direction of the data path.

A)Trend
B)Baseline
C)Level
D)Baseline phase

Question 12

___________ occurs because the individual data collection observations in single subject research may not yield independent observations.

A)Autocorrelation
B)Trend
C)Randomization
D)Bias

Question 13

Summarize and explain the advantages and disadvantages of visual analysis in single-subject research studies.

Question 14

Briefly explain why the use of mixed methods lends itself particularly well to single-subject research.

Question 15

A disadvantage of qualitative analysis is that:

A)there is a large time demand.
B)statistically significant results do not translate into successful intervention effects.
C)it may not be as reliable as quantitative analysis.
D)two analysts are required to analyze the data.

Question 16

A disadvantage of visual analysis is that:

A)there is a large time demand.
B)statistically significant results do not translate into successful intervention effects.
C)it may not be as reliable as quantitative analysis.
D)two analysts are required to analyze the data.

Question 17

The performance of the target behavior and where along the y -axis the data points fall is called ______________________.

A)level of behavior
B)variability in performance
C)statistical analysis
D)None of these are correct.

Question 18

Some limitations to statistical analysis include:

A)assumptions for use may be violated.
B)one may obtain a type I or type II error.
C)required knowledge and use of statistical computer packages.
D)All of these are correct.

Question 19

According to Denzin and Lincoln (1994), which is the first phase in the qualitative research process for a single-subject study?

A)Theoretical paradigms and perspectives are discovered and applied.
B)Research strategies are identified.
C)Methods of collection and analysis are identified.
D)The researcher places himself/herself in historical context.

Question 20

Which of the following is NOT an example of a qualitative analysis?

A)case studies
B)statistical review
C)introspection
D)observations