Correlation and simple linear regression methods assess the degree of strength, direction of association, and a linear summary of relationship existing between two variables, or observational units (Berg, 2004). In an effort to expose the descriptive analysis, correlational patterns resulting from the dataset DEL618_DHS618m1.sav, the writer/researcher hopes to examine the associative factors in light of the inferential statistics procedures that are paramount to the assignment. Such endeavor should help the writer/researcher to meet the goal of the theoretical basis for the assignment.

Correlation and Linear Frameworks

The correlation and linear patterns usually found in statistical analyses indicate that the role of independent and dependent variables is essential in the analysis of data as well as the levels of measurement utilized. In bivariate statistics and regression, as Berg (2004), and Myers, Gamst, and Guarino (2006) asserted, a flexibility of roles of the variables: playing one role in one context, and another role in another context can help explain their effects based on data collection methods used. This is important for the type of research design, the writer/researcher posits.

A linear regression shows how a distribution is presented depending on the values of a variable x, and how another variable y varies. The relationship between these variables is the key concern. There is an effort to define a best line to ascertain the paths of the measures of central tendency (mean, variance, standard deviation…) (Berg, 2004, p.24). A simple linear equation is defined as y = a+ bx, where y is defined as the dependent variable, and x as the independent variable. The intercept, a constant, is labeled as a, and b the coefficient, is also considered as a slope. A bivariate relationship captured in a scatterplot shows how the relationship, and the shape of the bivariate between the variables are presented.

Statistical Basis

The focus of this assignment is generated from a researcher’s willingness to examine factors influencing reading scores among school children. 7 variables considered yield substantive descriptive statistics showing whether correlation relationships exist among the variables. The descriptive statistics in tables 1, 2, 3 and 4 SPSS below provide a complete picture of the variables, fr