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Identify the three primary methods researchers use to manage outliers based on their causes. Additionally, describe the rules researchers must follow regarding what to do with the excluded data and what information must be reported when presenting their results.
Question: Identify the three primary methods researchers use to manage outliers based on their causes. Additionally, describe the rules researchers must follow regarding what to do with the excluded data and what information must be reported when presenting their results.
Sample answer: The three primary methods for managing outliers are: 1) correcting data entry errors, 2) excluding responses that stem from misunderstanding or lack of effort using consistent criteria, and 3) using robust statistics (such as the median) or analyzing the data both with and without the outliers for valid extreme responses. Excluded data must not be permanently deleted but set aside for potential future review. Finally, when presenting results, researchers must clearly report how many participants or responses were excluded and the specific criteria used for the exclusion.
Key points:
- Correct data entry errors when possible.
- Exclude responses caused by misunderstanding or lack of effort using consistent criteria.
- Use robust statistics (like the median) or analyze data with and without outliers for valid extreme responses.
- Set aside excluded data for potential future review instead of permanently deleting it.
- Report the number of excluded participants/responses and the specific criteria used in the final results presentation.
Rubric: The response must correctly identify the three outlier management techniques (correcting data entry errors, excluding data from misunderstanding/lack of effort, and using robust statistics or dual analyses for valid extremes). It must state that excluded data should be set aside rather than permanently deleted, and it must specify that researchers need to report the number of excluded data points/participants along with the specific criteria used.
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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU
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