Discussion: Selection of a Statistical Analysis Approach

Though data analysis occurs after the study hascompleted a data collection stage, the researcher needs to have in mindwhat type of analysis will allow the researcher to obtain an answer to aresearch question. The researcher must understand the purpose of eachmethod of analysis, the characteristics that must be present in thestudy for the design to be appropriate and any weaknesses of the designthat might limit the usefulness of the study results. Only then can theresearcher select the appropriate design. Choosing the appropriatedesign enables the researcher to claim the data that is potentialevidence that provides information about the relationship being studied.Notice that it is not the statistical test which tells us that researchis valid, rather, it is the research design. Social workers must beaware of and adjust any limitations of their chosen design that mayimpact the validity of the study.

To prepare for this Discussion, review the handout, A Short Course in Statistics.If necessary, locate and review online resources concerning internalvalidity and threats to internal validity. Then, review the “Social WorkResearch: Chi Square” case study located in this week’s resources.Consider the confounding variables, that is, factors that might explainthe difference between those in the program and those waiting to enterthe program.

By Day 3

Post an interpretation of thecase study’s conclusion that “the vocational rehabilitation interventionprogram may be effective at promoting full-time employment.” Describethe factors limiting the internal validity of this study, and explainwhy those factors limit the ability to draw conclusions regarding causeand effect relationships.

One page discussion