Q1: Identifying Variables and Preparing Data

Q1a. Explanatory and Response Variables

The explanatory variable in this analysis is the learning method, found in the group column. Students were in either the CAI (computer-assisted instruction) group or the IBL (inquiry-based learning) group.

The response variable is working memory, found in the WM_Z column. This score shows each student’s working memory level at the start of the study.

By comparing working memory across the two groups, we can see if the learning methods had different types of students at baseline.

Q1b. Dataset Columns Used

I used two columns from the dataset:

  • group — shows whether the student was in CAI or IBL
  • WM_Z — shows the student’s standardized working memory score

These match the explanatory and response variables in Q1a.

Q1c. Data Cleaning or Transformations

The data needed only small changes. I changed group into a categorical variable (factor) since it describes groups, not numbers. I also made sure WM_Z was numeric so I could compare the scores.

No other cleaning or changes were needed.

library(ggplot2)

# Load data
stage2 <- read.csv("dataset.csv")

# Make learning method a factor
stage2$group <- as.factor(stage2$group)

# Make working memory numeric
stage2$WM_Z <- as.numeric(stage2$WM_Z)

Q1d. Variable Types

  • group is categorical (CAI or IBL).
  • WM_Z is quantitative (a continuous working memory score).

This is why a boxplot is a good choice for the graph.

Q2: Graphing the Relationship

ggplot(stage2, aes(x = group, y = WM_Z)) +
  geom_boxplot() +
  labs(
    x = "Learning Method",
    y = "Working Memory Score (Z-Score)"
  )

Figure 1. This boxplot shows working memory scores (WM_Z) for the CAI and IBL groups. Each box shows the spread of scores within each learning method. This helps us see if the groups were different in working memory before the teaching began.

AI Use Narrative

I used some ChatGPT to help me better some of my wording and make sure the organization of this assignment was good for the rubric in case I missed anything while reading over. I fromed and confirmed the ideas, code, and results myself.