Case Study 4

The readings for this week focus on various types of correlations and regressions. In this discussion we will apply those concepts to the analysis of a case study. Read the “Chocolate and Body Weight” case study presented in Chapter 20 of the Online Statistics Education text, as well as the original article by Golomb et al. (2012) linked in the chapter.

In the body of your posting, include an overview of the following based on the research questions, “What is the relationship between chocolate consumption and body mass index (BMI)?”

• Hypotheses: List the statistical notation and written explanations for the null and alternative hypotheses for the study.
• Variables: Describe the independent (predictor) and dependent (outcome) variables, their levels, operational definitions, and characteristics (e.g., scale of measurement).
• Data Analysis: Use the results and Table 1 in the article to analyze the results. Summarize the specific type of statistical test conducted, the results obtained, and conclusions regarding the hypotheses (e.g, can we reject at the .05 or .01 level?). Be sure to describe why this specific correlation/regression was selected.
• Critique: Critique the results of the study, paying specific attention to the appropriateness of the analyses conducted, any biases or assumptions that were made, practical significance of the results, and recommendations for improving upon the study (methods or analyses).