Understanding Variables in Research

What is a variable?

• An entity that can take on different values

• A constant value in a research study

• A factor that cannot be measured

• A qualitative characteristic of a theory

Which of the following is an example of a numeric variable?

• Gender

• Blood type

• Time

• Language spoken

What is the difference between continuous and discrete variables?

Which of the following is an example of an ordinal variable?

• Age

• Blood type

• Clothing size

• Language spoken

What are control variables in a research study?

What is the difference between independent and dependent variables?

Which of the following is an example of a dichotomous variable?

• Age

• Gender

• Weight

• Temperature

What are extraneous variables in a research study?

What are predictor variables in a non-experimental study?

What is the purpose of classifying variables in a research study?