Parametric and Nonparametric Statistics
Most statistics courses tend to focus on parametric statistics; however, you might find that as you prepare to analyze your dissertation data, parametric statistics might not be an appropriate choice for your research. The following are some of the differences between parametric and nonparametric statistics.
Parametric Statistics
Parametric statistics are any statistical tests based on underlying assumptions about data’s distribution. In other words, parametric statistics are based on the parameters of the normal curve. Because parametric statistics are based on the normal curve, data must meet certain assumptions, or parametric statistics cannot be calculated. Prior to running any parametric statistics, you should always be sure to test the assumptions for the tests that you are planning to run.
Nonparametric Statistics
As implied by the name, nonparametric statistics are not based on the parameters of the normal curve. Therefore, if your data violate the assumptions of a usual parametric and nonparametric statistics might better define the data, try running the nonparametric equivalent of the parametric test. You should also consider using nonparametric equivalent tests when you have limited sample sizes (e.g., n < 30). Though nonparametric statistical tests have more flexibility than do parametric statistical tests, nonparametric tests are not as robust; therefore, most statisticians recommend that when appropriate, parametric statistics are preferred.
Parametric and Nonparametric Equivalencies
The table below outlines some common research designs and their appropriate parametric and nonparametric equivalents.
Browse More on PhDStudent
When you conduct your research, it is important to record the details of all the information you find to provide accurate references, …
Note: Many thanks to fellow PhDStudent blogger Ryan Krone for his contributions and insight to this post. Your thesis/dissertation proposal provides an …
Getting into graduate school is already a challenge on its own, and funding the program once admitted is even harder. Graduate studies …
You’ve finally earned your Bachelor’s degree and have made it into graduate school. Whether you already have massive student loans from undergrad …
What strategies can a doctoral student employ to maneuver the trials and tribulations of a dissertation committee? In Part 2, we …
You’ve heard this statement many times before: “the dissertation is the most important project you’ve ever worked on.” That may sound like …
If you are working on a thesis, dissertation, or other formal research project, chances are your advisor or committee will ask you …
Choosing a committee can be a daunting task for a doctoral student. We’ve already covered two strategies that can help you through this …
So you’re ready to pick your committee members; there are a few things to keep in mind first—after all, it is a …
Choosing the right defense committee can potentially be the difference between a smooth transition of receiving your doctoral degree or dodging bullets …
I recently had the experience of expecting my first baby a month before I graduated. Throughout the process, I accidentally learned several …
I recently had the experience of expecting my first baby a month before I graduated. Throughout the process, I accidentally learned several …
0 comments