Name ________________________________________

_______________

Date ______________________

Hour

College Project
Statistics 2015
Project Summary:
The costs of a college education continue to rise in America. With student debt spiraling out of
control, the question Is the high cost of a college education really worth it? begs to be asked.
Its hard to argue with the fact that a college education will help a person earn far more income
over a lifetime than a person without a college education; but is there an argument to be made
for how much is too much to spend on college? Students will examine the costs of college
education and determine if a higher-cost education means a student will get a better
education.
Driving Question:
How can we, as statisticians, determine if a higher college education cost correlates with a
better education?
Learning Targets: (CCSS)

I can create a scatter plot and describe how the variables are related.
I can fit a function (linear) to the data (if applicable) and use that function to solve problems in

the context of the data.

I can fit a linear function for a scatter plot using the process of linear regression.
I can interpret the slope and intercept of a linear model in the context of the data.
I can find and interpret the correlation coefficient of a regression line.
I know the difference between correlation and causation.

Learning Targets: (21st Century Skills)

I can create a team contract that incorporates all views/concerns of my group.
I can objectively assess my teammates on their collaboration skills during the project.
I can create an engaging presentation that incorporates the use of technology and meets
the guidelines of the presentation rubric.
I can create and present an oral presentation to my classmates and public audience
members.
Project Requirements:
Selection of a proper sample to conduct your research. An explanation of how and why
that particular sample was chosen should be included in your presentation.
A definition of the variables being compared in your teams analysis. An explanation of
why these variables were chosen should accompany the definitions. Your team must
investigate a minimum of three variables for this project.
Mathematical calculations are shown with steps and proper rounding/units displayed.
Cited research for all data used in your teams calculations.
An engaging presentation that includes all team members of your findings for the driving
question of the project. You will also be expected to answer any questions from your
audience during your presentation.
A self-assessment of the collaboration rubric and presentation rubric as well as an
assessment of each team member in your group.