- Description
CJA 386 Wk 2 Discussion – Dispersion of Data
Post a total of 3 substantive responses over 2 separate days for full participation. This includes your initial post and 2 replies to classmates or your faculty member.
Due Thursday
This week, we learn about a type of data analysis called dispersion. Measures of central tendency summarize the data, while dispersion measures the variability of data. Having only one type of summary could lead to conclusions like 6-foot-tall people all have the same body structure. When you use dispersion to add in other data points, it provides more perspective. In the previous body structure example, considering height combined with weight gives you a better idea of what a person might look like. In this discussion, you’ll look at how to describe the way the data is spread out in relation to other data points.
Select one of the following measures of dispersion that could assist you in making criminal justice operational decisions (e.g., assignment of patrols, homicide rates, 911 response times).
- Interquartile range
- Standard deviation
- Variance
Explore your local crime reporting resources to find an example of data using your chosen dispersion measure. Most large cities and many counties have crime reporting programs. If you cannot find data for your area, take a look at City of Phoenix Crime Statistics and Maps or national data from the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program.
Respond to the following in a minimum of 175 words:
- Share your selected measure of dispersion, example, and an operational decision in which it could assist you.
- How does your selected measure provide insight into your specific operational decision?
- Why is your selected measure better than another measure for that application?
- What limitations of your selected measure should you consider when determining the implications?
Due Monday
Post two replies to classmates or your faculty member. Be constructive and professional.