Math problem Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Math problem - Essay Example This means that there is some question as to whether this sample is sufficiently random, and whether that sample accurately represents the population. Another question to ask is how representative the sample was, by having only 50 represented could result to sample size as reported in guideline 3 of the article. In addition, the data that is used comes from the parents, rather than a single observer. As a result, there is likely to be significant variation in the observed results. Lastly, the question one remains asking is that the conclusions made are based on what? The study does not tell us the values of comparison in order to reach at the conclusion, it is important to consider guideline 8 in making the conclusions since sometimes the comparison values could not be significant to warrant such a conclusion made. The data reported by the parents is essentially anecdotal, rather than being an actual measure of the childs activity or energy level. The parents perception of how active their child is at any particular moment may be affected by the parents own mood and tolerance for activity at the time. If a parent is feeling particularly harried or overwhelmed, a lesser level of activity on the part of their child may seem more "active" than usual. Conversely, if a parent is feeling less stressed, they may be more tolerant of activity before they reach the point where the activity of the child seems "high" or "excessive". In other words, the parents perception of the childs activity may be inconsistent (According to guideline 1 we would conclude that the type of study is not appropriate), both due to the lack of a standard scale of measurement, and by their own emotional state. Finally, this particular study was sponsored by a group that has a vested interest in the outcome. In particular, the stated outcome favors the company that sponsored the study-this is similar to what we observe in guideline 2 of the article. This calls