Summary of What is a dataset?
Observations about the world around us can lead to inferences about differences and patterns.
Science requires careful record-keeping and precision, which can be achieved through constructing datasets.
datasets come in various forms, with the rectangular long-form dataset being a commonly used one.
"data" is the plural form of "datum," with a dataset being a structured arrangement of datums.
The unit of observation is the "something" that the bits of information in the dataset are about, represented by a row.
In survey research, the unit of observation is typically an individual person, with variables such as age, gender, race, and income.
variables are characteristics about the unit of observation that have the potential to show variation.
Understanding the basics of creating a dataset involves seeing data as bits of information, knowing that rows represent units of observation, and understanding that columns represent variables.
Notable Quotes
— 00:23 — « Science requires us to take these intuitive processes of observation to a deeper level of careful record-keeping and precision. »
— 00:46 — « To start, we have to remember that “data” is the plural form of “datum.” »
— 00:59 — « The “something” those bits of information are about is known as the unit of observation. »
— 01:45 — « Examples of variables in a survey are age, gender, race, and income. »
— 01:57 — « But age can be measured in many ways: as years or categories and with several types of survey questions. »
Category
Educational