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A student developer is creating a test for 'programming aptitude' and observes that three variables—coding speed, debugging accuracy, and code readability—are all highly correlated with each other. Briefly explain how the developer would apply the concept of factor analysis to these three variables to identify a single underlying factor.
Question: A student developer is creating a test for 'programming aptitude' and observes that three variables—coding speed, debugging accuracy, and code readability—are all highly correlated with each other. Briefly explain how the developer would apply the concept of factor analysis to these three variables to identify a single underlying factor.
Sample answer: The developer would group the highly correlated variables (coding speed, debugging accuracy, and code readability) together because they represent multiple measures of a single underlying construct. This grouped cluster would then be defined as the single factor of 'programming aptitude.'
Key points:
- Group the highly correlated variables of speed, accuracy, and readability.
- Interpret the group as multiple measures of a single underlying construct.
- Establish the resulting construct as a single factor (e.g., programming aptitude).
Rubric: The response must apply factor analysis principles by grouping the three correlated variables and defining them as representing a single underlying construct or factor.
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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU
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Factor Loadings
Independence of Factors
Interpretation of Factors in Factor Analysis
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