07 Jan Which data set has

Module 2 – Discussion: Standard Deviation

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m2_DB.jpgFor this discussion activity, you will use an applet that deals with the standard deviation of a numerical data set.

Be sure that you completed the applet/discussion on Mean vs Median before doing this activity.

Standard Deviation = The standard deviation is a number that measures how far a typical observation is from the mean.

Run Applet

Navigate to the Standard Deviation (Links to an external site.) applet and follow these instructions:

Prepare the applet for use.

Select the “Add point” button and enter a value of 0 in the input box, then select “OK”.

Repeat the above step to enter the value 20.

Select the “Reset” button to remove the data points, but leave the axis between 0 and 20.

Create Set A.

Insert eight data points approximately evenly spaced between 0 and 20.

Record the standard deviation of Set A.

Select the “Reset” button to clear the data.

Create Set B.

Insert all eight data points very close to 10 on the number line.

Record the standard deviation of Set B.

Select the “Reset” button to clear the data.

Create Set C.

Insert four points close to 0 and four points close to 20.

Record the standard deviation of Set C.

Post

Which data set has the lowest standard deviation?

Which has the highest?

Is this what you expected? Why or why not?

Your initial post should be made before the end of the fourth day of the module to receive full credit. Return at least once later in the module to comment on two or more classmates’ posts. Do NOT “post and run” – making all three posts in the same visit. You need multiple visits to the Discussions in order to gain multiple perspectives by reading all of the posts and replies.

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