Data Analysis Project 2: Demonstrations

Data Analysis Project 2 For this project you will demonstrate competency in researching economics

Using the data covered in the Health, Education, and Crime slides, generate six research questions to study (e.g., “Have thyroid cancer rates increased since 2000?” or “What is the educational attainment across races in California?”). You are to create two research questions from Health, two from Education, and two from Crime. Each question must utilize a different data source (e.g., CDC, FBI, NAEP) and include at least 30 data points (n ≥ 30).

For each research question, create an Excel sheet with your data set, one graph, and calculate the following statistical metrics: mean (weighted, arithmetic, or geometric), median, sample variance, standard deviation, coefficient of variation, range, 90th percentile, quintiles, skewness, Z-score for data points, and a discrete probability distribution histogram. All metrics should be calculated in Excel using class-reviewed functions. Ensure each data set is represented by at least one graph, with a total of at least three different graph types across the entire project.

Prepare a PowerPoint presentation with one slide per question, including one graph, statistical metrics, up to three bullet points (optional), and hyperlinks to your data source website (check that the links work). An introductory slide should include your name, project number, and class. The presentation should be visually appealing, free of spelling errors, and creatively designed. Both Excel and PowerPoint files must be submitted together via Blackboard by the due date. The project grade is split evenly between Excel and PowerPoint, and both are required for a score.

Paper For Above instruction

The objective of this research project is to demonstrate proficiency in exploratory data analysis, critical thinking, and presentation skills through a systematic investigation of health, education, and crime data. The first step involves formulating six distinct research questions—two each from health, education, and crime—drawing on different credible data sources. The selection of questions should be meaningful, answerable with available data, and exemplify key topics within each category. For instance, one might inquire whether thyroid cancer rates have changed over recent years, or examine disparities in educational attainment across racial groups.

Once questions are finalized, the next phase involves collecting relevant data. This step requires sourcing datasets with a minimum of 30 data points from reliable sources such as the CDC, FBI, NAEP, or other official agencies. Using Excel, each question will have a dedicated worksheet that not only contains the data but also visual representations such as bar charts, histograms, or line graphs, adhering to at least three different graph types across the entire project. In addition, a comprehensive statistical analysis must be performed for each dataset. These metrics include mean, median, variance, standard deviation, coefficient of variation, range, percentile measures like the 90th percentile, quintiles, skewness, and Z-scores for selected data points, along with a histogram depicting the discrete probability distribution.

The final deliverables are a well-structured Excel file and an accompanying PowerPoint presentation. Each slide should succinctly display one graph, summarized statistical data, and optional bullet points to contextualize the findings. Hyperlinks to data sources must be verified for accessibility. The introduction slide should contain student identification details and project specifics. Emphasis should be placed on clarity, aesthetics, and professionalism. Both files are to be submitted via Blackboard before the deadline, with equal weighting in the overall grade. This project aims not only to enhance data literacy but also to hone communication and presentation skills, critical assets in analytical and policy-oriented fields.

References

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2022). National Vital Statistics Reports. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/nvss.htm
• Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). (2023). Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program. https://crime-statistics.wiley.com
• National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP). (2023). The Nation's Report Card. https://nces.ed.gov/nationsreportcard
• United States Census Bureau. (2023). Educational Attainment Data. https://www.census.gov/data.html
• World Health Organization (WHO). (2023). Global Health Observatory. https://www.who.int/data/gho
• American Cancer Society. (2022). Cancer Statistics. https://www.cancer.org/research/cancer-statistics
• CIA World Factbook. (2023). Country Comparisons. https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook
• Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). (2023). Traffic Fatalities Data. https://www.iihs.org/topics/fatality-statistics
• National Center for Education Statistics. (2023). Spending in Public Schools. https://nces.ed.gov/programs/statereport
• Guttmacher Institute. (2023). Abortion Data and Facts. https://www.guttmacher.org