As noted in the course syllabus, the research paper is one of the major requirements of this writing-intensive
course. To reduce the amount of frustration and uncertainty associated with the project, I have compiled a group
of datasets of different types among which you can choose as the basis of your project.
• Choose one the five datasets described below.
o If you would like to propose a topic using data that you collect/compile, you
may do so. However, you need to speak with me first to get approval. This is
to verify that you will be able to find data suitable for the nature of this
project.
• Given your choice of datasets, next choose a specific variable as the focus of your analysis – this is your
Criterion variable. This MUST be a numeric variable. Note that to conduct a meaningful statistical
analysis of your criterion variable, it may be necessary to transform how the variable is measured. For
example, converting a “gross” income variable to a “per capita” basis by dividing by
population, or converting a “levels” variable to logarithms.
• Next, choose a Predictor variable that you believe is associated (correlated) with your
chosen criterion variable. As with the Criterion variable, this MUST be a numeric variable.
• Next, choose one or more variables – different than your criterion or predictor
variables – to create a category variable that can be used to sub-set your overall sample
into at least three mutually exclusive sub-groups. This could be variables related to
geography, industry classifications, gender, ethnicity, etc. See the document Term Project
Grouping Strategies and associated workbook for examples.
Sample Solution