DSRT 734: Testing the Relationship Between Reading Time and GPA

DSRT 734 Question

A researcher is interested in testing if there is a relationship
between the amount of time a person spends reading in a week and their
grade point average in school. Which is the best test for the researcher
to run?

Option A

Independent samples t-test


Option B

Pearson's chi-square


Option C

ANOVA


Option D

Pearson's correlation

What this question assesses

This item assesses recognition of a relationship question involving two measurements recorded for each person and the distinction between association, mean comparison, and categorical count analysis.

How to approach this type of question

Identify the variables and their intended scales. Weekly reading time is a quantitative amount, and GPA is ordinarily treated as a quantitative summary in this kind of prompt. The question asks whether the two move together, not whether named groups have different means. Sketch the expected data layout: one row per person with both measurements, then imagine the scatterplot those pairs would create. A suitable analysis should summarize the direction and strength of the relationship under its assumptions. In actual data, inspect linearity, unusual observations, restricted ranges, and whether a rank-based alternative would be more appropriate. Contrast that structure with methods designed for contingency tables or comparisons across categorical groups. Finally remember that evidence of association would not establish that reading time causes GPA differences. Use these distinctions to evaluate the candidates; no option is identified here.

If actual data become available, record GPA and reading-time units, check missing pairs, and inspect the scatterplot before interpreting a coefficient. A restricted GPA range or a few highly influential observations could obscure or exaggerate a relationship. Decide whether the intended association is linear and whether the scales support that model. Any final conclusion should report uncertainty and avoid suggesting that an observed relationship proves additional reading changes GPA.

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Related DSRT 734 resources

• University of the Cumberlands course resources
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