The process of evaluating statistics is difficult and sometimes misleading. In research, the use of statistics benefits the analysis of a problem. However, the interpretation of statistics is complex and because of this they can be presented in a purposefully misleading way. In the early stages of a study, during data collection, errors can occur by mistake or because of bias. During the final stage of a study errors can occur in the process of analyzing the results. The current analysis will examine a variety of statistical issues from the start of the research process to the end.
Before a study even begins, bias can enter the process from the source of funding for the research. The evaluation of statistics requires attention as to the purpose of the study. It is also important to review previous research on the subject matter. An awareness of the types of questions that were asked in surveys or questionnaires that were included in the study is vital as well. How questions are asked, down to the wording of questions, matters and can change the results of a study. Even the order of questions asked may influence or bias the responses of participants.
In addition, some statistics are biased, and may be presented in a way to defend a specific viewpoint or theory (Anderson, Sweeney, and Williams 288). Before assessing the results of a study, one should check which parties, universities, or individuals collected and analyzed the data. The location of data collection can influence results as well. This is important if geographical region is the subject matter of concern, studies that were conducted in varying sized regions should not be utilized. Alternately, if smaller regions are under analysis, national samples would not be representative for those purposes.
The methodology of data collection, and the methodology of the study design may greatly influence results. Different procedures and environments greatly impact stati...