CCU: Lesson - Terminology About Data

Students participate in a class using computers and working with a teacherTerminology About Data

Think About It...

As we begin our next lesson, ask yourself a question:

  • Are you familiar with any of the following terms:
    • qualitative
    • quantitative
    • categorical
    • numerical

Terminology About Data

As a middle school student you may be familiar with the following types or categories of data: qualitative, quantitative, categorical, and/or numerical. Before we move ahead, let's review these common terms:

  • Qualitative Data - information that cannot be counted, measured or expressed using numbers. This type of data requires reflection from a data analyst. Example: biographical information about the things a famous person did during their life
    • Categorical Data - categorical data is collected by using names and labels, which allows the data to be put into groups.
  • Quantitative Data - information that can be counted, measured or expressed using numbers. The exact opposite of qualitative data! Example: a doctor's office collects information about a patient, that includes their height, weight, blood pressure and heart rate at the time of the visit. These data are all quantitative.
    • Numerical Data - quantitative data is collected using numbers. Numerical data is the type of data used to create quantitative analysis.

Practice Activity

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