aaq terms

Mean

The arithmetic average of a set of scores.

Median

The middle score in a ranked distribution; half the scores are above and half below.

Mode

The most frequently occurring score in a data set.

Range

The difference between the highest and lowest scores.

Standard Deviation

A measure of how spread out or varied the scores are from the mean.

Effect Size

A statistic that describes the strength or magnitude of a relationship or difference between groups.

Percentile Rank

The percentage of scores in a distribution that fall below a specific score.

Skewness

The extent to which a distribution is lopsided or asymmetrical.

Correlation Coefficients (r)

A numerical value (from -1 to +1) that indicates the strength and direction of a relationship between two variables.

Statistical Significance

The likelihood that a result is not due to chance, typically indicated by p < .05.

Experiment

A research method in which a researcher manipulates an independent variable to determine its effect on a dependent variable, allowing conclusions about cause and effect.

Correlational Research

A research method that measures the relationship between two variables without manipulating them; cannot determine causation.

Case Study

An in-depth examination of one individual or a small group, often used to study rare or unusual situations.

Naturalistic Observation

Observing and recording behavior in its natural environment without interference or manipulation.

Meta-Analysis

A statistical technique that combines results from many studies to identify overall trends and strengthen conclusions.

Cross-Sectional Study

A research design that compares different groups of people at one point in time to identify differences related to age or other factors.

Longitudinal Study

A research design that follows the same group of people over an extended period to track changes over time.