Question

In this case, estimate the impact of certain factors on a variable of interest through linear regression. We are interested in finding out which factors have an impact on students’ grades in a stats course (dependent variable). Which independent variables would you include? State variables you chose to include and explain what kind of impact (positive or negative) you think it would have on the students grades and why.

Answer 1

There are several independent variables which can impact the dependent variable, students' grades here:

1) No. of hours studied per week - Expected to have a positive impact since more study generally translates into better grades

2) Experience of Faculty - Higher experience of faculty is expected to positively impact the students' grades as the quality of education imparted will be better

3) Involvement in co-curricular activities - Expected to positively impact grades as students will feel more energized and attentive at studies if involved in co-curricular activities.

4) Family stability - This is a social factor, expected to positively impact grades if a student's family is more stable and supportive.

5) Economic condition - Family's economic condition is another factor, having a positive impact if the family is economically stable

6) Attention span - this is an individual trait, a higher attention span has a positive impact on student's grades

7) Prior education - This is another factor that might affect grades positively if the prior education quality is good.

8) Attendance - Higher attendance generally translates into higher grades for the students as a student with higher attendance record is expected to be aware of the syllabus and concepts better than others.