Olivia sees that in her data there is a relationship between regular exercise and a range of health outcomes, with those doing exercise having better outcomes. Olivia can claim which of the following statements
A. there is evidence of a correlation between regular exercise and health outcomes in her group of UTS academics
B. there is evidence of a causal relationship between regular exercise and health outcomes in the population of UTS academics
C. there is evidence of a causal relationship between regular exercise and health outcomes in her group of UTS academics
D. there is evidence of a correlation between regular exercise and health outcomes in the population of UTS academics
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: A. there is evidence of a correlation between regular exercise and health outcomes in her group of UTS academics
Olivia can only claim there is a correlation between regular exercise and health outcomes in her group of UTS academics. Correlation means that two variables are associated, but it does not imply that one causes the other. In her case, she observed that people who exercise regularly tend to have better health outcomes. However, this observation alone does not prove that exercise is the reason for the improved health outcomes.
To make a claim about causality, Olivia would need a controlled experimental design, such as a randomized controlled trial. Observational data, like what she seems to have collected, are limited because of possible confounding variables. For example, people who exercise regularly may also have healthier diets, better sleep habits, or higher socioeconomic status, all of which could contribute to better health outcomes.
Additionally, Olivia’s data is specific to her group of UTS academics. Without conducting a broader study or using a representative sample, she cannot generalize her findings to the entire population of UTS academics or beyond. Generalization requires that the sample reflects the larger population in terms of important characteristics. If her group is small or not randomly selected, then conclusions drawn from it are limited to that specific group.
Therefore, based on her observational findings, the most accurate and scientifically appropriate claim is that there is evidence of a correlation between regular exercise and health outcomes in her group of UTS academics. She cannot claim causation or extend the findings to the broader population without further evidence.