Data Analysis
Data refers to the variables of dimensions used to quantify items for analysis and making inferences for decision making. For it to be useful, it has to be collected, compiled, and summarized in graphs or charts for easy understanding. This research will examine different types of data that can be used to generate various graphs and the outcome of using data to solve a problem.
Data is categorized as either observational, experimental, simulation, or derived, based on the method of collection (Gardiner et al., 2016). Observational data refers to information captured during observations or an activity, for instance, in the open-ended surveys or use of instruments to record information. Experimental data, on the other hand, is collected when the researcher’s intervention alters a variable to project a larger population.
Simulation data is obtained by imitation of available operations or systems such as weather systems or economic models (Young & Wessnitzer, 2016). Derived data are information gained from a present source and data points or conversions of existing variables to get the result, examples of this data include the arithmetic formula.. Moreover, the statistics collected can be compiled into various charts and graphs to best display the summarized information (Joshi, 2017). Examples of graphs used include bar, line, time series, pictograph, and combo graphs among others. The charts commonly used for data representation include pie, waterfall, histogram, gauge charts, and spider charts.
I have used data to showcase different examples such as data of age, population growth, and determining infant mortality rate in a local hospital. The outcome satisfied my expectations as I got the majority age of the community as the sample was conducted to determine the age disparity in society. Moreover, it helped in determining some of the factors that contribute to increased mortality rate in the area. Additionally, other variables such as gender of the population were also listed in the findings.
Data can be obtained using various methods and classified according to the method of collection. The data must be compiled in graphs and charts for easy referencing and making decisions. Understanding the uses of these information is essential in solving some of the complexities facing the contemporary society.
References
Gardiner, B., Julich, S., & Hay, K. (2016). Academic murals: Social work research exemplars. Massey Univesity, New Zealand.
Joshi, Y. (2017). Unit-7 Editing Illustrations, Tables, Charts, and Graphs. IGNOU.
Young, J., & Wessnitzer, J. (2016). Descriptive statistics, graphs, and visualisation. In Modern Statistical Methods for HCI (pp. 37-56). Springer, Cham.