ERIC Number: EJ1324103
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2022-Feb
Pages: 15
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0198-7429
EISSN: N/A
Brief Report: Ordinate Scaling and Axis Proportions of Single-Case Graphs in Two Prominent EBD Journals from 2010 to 2019
Peltier, Corey; McKenna, John W.; Sinclair, Tracy E.; Garwood, Justin; Vannest, Kimberly J.
Behavioral Disorders, v47 n2 p134-148 Feb 2022
Single-case experimental designs (SCEDs) are frequently used to evaluate whether a functional relation exists between interventions and student outcomes. A critical factor in decision making is the evaluation of graphical data, typically displayed in time-series graphs. Distortion in the graphical display of data can lead to invalid decisions on whether a functional relation exists, as well as overestimating the magnitude of an effect. Previous research has identified two potentially analysis-altering elements that when manipulated alter visual analysts' decision regarding the presence of a functional relation and magnitude of effect. The purpose of this review was to evaluate the graphical display of data from SCEDs in the field of emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD). The review covered 40 SCEDs, including 258 graphs, published in "Behavioral Disorders" and "Journal of Emotional and Behavioral Disorders" over the last 10 years (2010-2019). We identified large variation in the axis proportions of reviewed graphs, as measured using standardized x:y and the data points per x- to y-axis ratio (DPPXYR). A majority of graphs included an ordinate scaling procedure that aligns with findings from preliminary research on this analysis-altering element. We provide recommendations to the field on designing graphs to enhance the validity of visual analysis.
Descriptors: Periodicals, Graphs, Research Problems, Behavior Disorders, Emotional Disturbances, Scaling, Research Design
SAGE Publications and Hammill Institute on Disabilities. 2455 Teller Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320. Tel: 800-818-7243; Tel: 805-499-9774; Fax: 800-583-2665; e-mail: journals@sagepub.com; Web site: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2814
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A