In Presenting Data That Result from an Experiment, a Group

question 6

Multiple Choice

In presenting data that result from an experiment, a group of students show that most of their measurements fall on a straight diagonal line on their graph. However, two of their data points are "outliers" and fall far to one side of the expected relationship. What should they do?

• A) Do not show these points but write a footnote that the graph represents the correct data.
• B) Average several trials and therefore rule out the improbable results.
• C) Show all results obtained and then try to explore the reason(s) for these outliers.
• D) Throw out this set of data and try again.
• E) Change the details of the experiment until they can obtain the expected results.

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Definitions:

Heuristics

Mental shortcuts or rules of thumb that simplify decision-making, often based on past experience and perceived patterns.

Algorithms

A process or set of rules to be followed in calculations or other problem-solving operations, especially by a computer.

Prototypes

Original or first models of something from which other forms are copied or developed, often used in the context of product design and cognitive psychology.

Heuristic

A mental shortcut that allows people to solve problems and make judgments quickly and efficiently, often using past experiences and common sense.