Question

You are part of a school and have to report the results of standardized test scores. Which measure of central tendency would you use? Assume that you don't know how your students will perform; so consider the general effects of outliers on the three measures of central tendency. Research and summarize the general effects that outliers have on each of the measures of central tendency. Then, using some real values, provide an example of how the three measures of central tendency vary due to outlier effects.

Answer 1

Recently, two new transfer students joined your school, and both have received extremely high scores on the test. Which measure of central tendency would you use, and why? Explain which measure you would use in this situation by using actual numbers to illustrate your point. Calculate all three measures of central tendency and depict what happens before and after the addition of the two transfer students.

Justify your answers with appropriate reasoning and research from your textbook and course readings. Start reviewing and responding to at least two of your classmates as early in the week as possible. You can ask technical questions or respond generally to the overall experience. Be honest, clear, and concise. Always use constructive language, even in criticism, to work toward the goal of positive progress. Using questions and seeking clarifications are good ways to make your reviews substantive!

Answer 2

Measures of central tendency"
mean: sensitive to extreme values that may be unrepresentative
median: half lie above, half below
mode: most frequent score, tells little about other scores.

Answer 3

would the mean or the mode be the best way to do this question

Answer 4

I would not use the mode, as it might come from an unusual sub-set of the students, such as the brightest or least bright.

Answer 5

so the mean then I think

Answer 6

The mean is most often used. Its disadvantage is that a few unusual scores can influence it greatly, more so than they would the median.