Question

A survey shows that children who have encyclopedias in their homes earn better grades in school than children whose homes lack encyclopedias. The researcher concludes that having encyclopedias at home improves grades. This conclusion is erroneous primarily because the researcher has incorrectly:

Answer 1

Answer:

The researcher has incorrectly identified correlation for causation.

Explanation:

Correlation is a statistical possibility that relates two variables in a research. These relationship may or may not be causal. On the other hand, causation refers to the degree in which a variable has effect on another. The findings in a research might include numerous causes.

In the example, the researcher assumes the presence of encyclopedias are a direct cause, but that cannot be determined with the available data.