Descriptive and Explanatory Variables Research Assignment
This week's assignment
It is important to note the subtle difference between defining and conceptualizing variables. Defining a variable simply means to come up with a term and its working definition. Conceptualization goes beyond simple definition to define the parameters of a concept. It includes defining subconcepts, establishing boundaries for definitions, and relating definitions to theory.
For this Discussion, think about the differences between descriptive and explanatory variables. Then consider some examples of each that you might include if you were carrying out the research project for the City of Walden outlined in this week's introduction. Then consider, in general, whether it might be more difficult to define and conceptualize descriptive or explanatory variables.
Descriptive and explanatory variables
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Descriptive and Explanatory Variables
Descriptive variables generally mean a type of research that uses data analysis and design used in a given topic. They state and answer the questions why, what, when and how something occurred. They only state the data and characteristics of a particular phenomenon. This can include both qualitative and quantitative analysis. In most instances, descriptive variables allow for case studies which present events which once studied can provide more information about a certain topic. It also involves observation which is the best method in acquiring necessary information and survey methods to collect a large amount of data that needs to be analyzed CITATION Wal01 \l 1033 (Walliman, 2001).
Explanatory variables on the hand are used to explain and show future changes in given values. They generally give clear investigations into matters by subjecting an intensive discovery of different ideas CITATION Wal01 \l 1033 (Walliman, 2001).
In order to clearly understand the differences between the two variables, we need to analyze a few examples. Taking an example of ‘The Academic performance of students in secondary schools’ the following can be adduced. In descriptive variables; the most effective way of ensuring high academic performance by students is to balance their class work with curriculum activities and to assign them qualified teachers. A descriptive variable will state the number of students who engage in those activities and equally perform well in their academic work like, 20 of the students who were awarded scholarships of academic merit, 18 of them participated in sports. However, in explanatory variables, we will need to go further and analyze how the aca...