Dana Do’s: Mean or Median? Choosing the Right Level Line to Interpret Graph Data

Being able to interpret graph data is an important skill for the exam. One of the properties of inspectable behavior-change on a graph is the level line. This line represents the degree to which the data values converge. This is the horizontal line that looks like it’s going through the middle of the data point values. Think of the level that you would use to see if a picture is hanging straight.

This is not just an arbitrary line. It requires math, and knowing which mathematical equations is the most appropriate for a specific set of data.

There are two ways to establish a level line: one is by taking all the data points and calculating their average. This is known as the mean level line. A level line that represents the average value of the successive data points.

The other way to establish the level line is by identifying the middle value of all the data points. For example, if you put all the values in order, from smallest to largest, what number is in the middle? That number represents the placement of the median level line. Think: mean equals average, and median equals the middle value.

So when should the level line be based on the mean, and when should it be based on the median? If the data path is relatively stable, then the mean level is the way to go. It is an average of all the data values. But if the data is variable, with extreme outliers in either direction, then a good way to offset the influence of those outliers which would sway the data, is to use the median level line.

6th Edition TCO
  • C. Measurement, Data Display, and Interpretation  
  • C.11 Interpret graphed data.  
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    The vertical axis of a graph, which displays the quantitative values of the measured behavior (e.g., count, percent correct).
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    The specification of the number of response opportunities required to achieve a pre-specified level of performance criteria.
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    The horizontal axis of a graph, which frequently represents the dates or sessions across which data were collected.
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    Measurement that describes a behavior’s physical form and shape.
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    The predicted amount of training time needed for a client to achieve independence and mastery in program goals.
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    On a line graph, the overall direction of the data path.
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    When measurement refers to the point in time that the behavior occurs (latency, interresponse time).
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    A standardized process for charting and analyzing how the rate of behavior changes over time.
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    A line drawn on a line graph that represents the general direction of the data; used to visually analyze the overall trend of the graphed data.
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    A chart and measurement system that displays patterns related to behavior and specific time and setting variables.
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    The measurable duration of time between the onset or appearance of a stimulus and the initiation of the response.
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