Assessment 1
Descriptive Statistics and Data Visualizations
Instructions: Create a descriptive statistics table and histogram for one of the three variables in a data set. Write a 2-3 page recommendation and plan of action in a Word document and insert the table and histogram graphic into this document. Submit both the Word document and the Excel file that shows the descriptive statistics output.
Introduction:
Note: You are strongly encouraged to complete the assessments in this course in the order they are presented.
Descriptive statistics play an important role in analyzing data. It numerically summarizes key characteristics of variables. Measures of central tendency (mean, median, and mode) and dispersion (variance, standard deviation, and range) characterize the probability distribution. A histogram visualizes the distribution of numerical data, indicating the number of data points that lie within a range of values. For this assessment, you will perform descriptive statistics and create a histogram for selected variables in a data set.
Note: Complete the assessments in this course in the order in which they are presented.
Data Analysis Software:
To complete the assessments in this course, you will need to use data analysis software to complete statistical calculations, create graphs, and tabular summaries, and share your results in a Microsoft Word document. You will use Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Excel Analysis ToolPak add-in. Be aware that not all statistical calculations, graphs, and tabular summaries can be completed in this software, so you may need to do some work outside of the software.
Microsoft Excel Data Analysis ToolPak Add-In for PC and Mac
Microsoft Excel Analysis ToolPak Activation for PC Users: The Microsoft Excel Analysis ToolPak is a specialized Excel add-in included in the standard Microsoft Office suite. If your Excel software meets the standard Capella University Computer Requirements, you will not need to purchase this software. However, you may need to activate the application before you can use it. If you do not own Microsoft Excel, Capella arranges for a significant discount for Microsoft Office for Capella learners.
Preparation
First, read the Assessment 1 Lecture [PDF] Download Assessment 1 Lecture [PDF].
Then download the Assessment 1 Data Set [XLSX].
The data set contains the following variables:
- utilization (average number of patient days per month).
- satisfaction (patient satisfaction scores percentile rank).
- readmissions (readmission rate per month).
Nursing home administration has the objectives of higher utilization, higher patient satisfaction, and lower readmissions. Select one of the three variables to analyze to create a plan of action for improvement. Provide a rationale for your selection. Base your analysis on average performance over the past 70 months.
Instructions
For this assessment, create a descriptive statistics table and histogram for one of the three variables in the Assessment 1 Data Set [XLSX]. Write your recommendation and plan of action in a Word document and insert the table and histogram graphic into this document. See Copy From Excel to Another Office Program for instructions. Submit both the Word document and the Excel file that shows the descriptive statistics output.
Grading Criteria:
The numbered assessment instructions outlined below correspond to the grading criteria in the Descriptive Statistics and Data Visualizations Scoring Guide, so be sure to address each point. You may also want to review the performance-level descriptions for each criterion to see how your work will be assessed.
- Perform the appropriate descriptive statistics for the one selected variable in a data set.
- Report descriptive statistics table with measures of central tendency and dispersion.
- Create a histogram for the one selected variable that visually depicts the distribution of that variable.
- Interpret statistical results of a data analysis.
- Include a summary of your interpretation of the distribution shape for the histogram.
- Write a recommendation to determine what decision and plan of action to make for the scenario that is based upon your data analysis and supported with scholarly literature.
- Write clearly and concisely, using correct grammar, mechanics, and APA formatting.
Additional Requirements
Your assessment should also meet the following requirements:
- Written communication: Write clearly, accurately, and professionally, incorporating sources appropriately.
- Length: 2–3 pages.
- Resources: A minimum of three or preferably more scholarly references to support all major concepts, dates, numbers, and statistics. Use evidence-based journal articles, primary sources (.gov, .org, .edu), or scholarly (professional statistics sites).
- APA format: Cite the sources using current APA guidelines. See the Find Scholarly & Peer-Reviewed Sources and Evidence and APA Campus resources for guidance.
- Font and font size: Times Roman, 12 point.
Competencies Measured:
By successfully completing this assessment, you will demonstrate your proficiency in the following course competencies and scoring guide criteria:
- Competency 2: Analyze data using computer-based programming and software.
- Perform the appropriate descriptive statistics for the selected variable in a data set.
- Competency 3: Interpret results of data analysis for value based healthcare decisions, policy, or practice.
- Interpret statistical results used in the data analysis.
- Competency 4: Present results of data analysis to support a decision or recommendation.
- Create a histogram that visually depicts the distribution for the one selected variable in a data set.
- Write a recommendation for a decision and plan of action based on a data analysis and supported with scholarly literature.
- Competency 5: Communicate audience-appropriate health management content in a logically structured and concise manner, writing clearly with correct use of grammar, punctuation, spelling, and APA style.
- Write clearly and concisely, using correct grammar, mechanics, and APA formatting.