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The Communicability of Graphical Alternatives to Tabular Displays of Statistical Simulation Studies

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  • Alex R Cook
  • Shanice W L Teo

Abstract

Simulation studies are often used to assess the frequency properties and optimality of statistical methods. They are typically reported in tables, which may contain hundreds of figures to be contrasted over multiple dimensions. To assess the degree to which these tables are fit for purpose, we performed a randomised cross-over experiment in which statisticians were asked to extract information from (i) such a table sourced from the literature and (ii) a graphical adaptation designed by the authors, and were timed and assessed for accuracy. We developed hierarchical models accounting for differences between individuals of different experience levels (under- and post-graduate), within experience levels, and between different table-graph pairs. In our experiment, information could be extracted quicker and, for less experienced participants, more accurately from graphical presentations than tabular displays. We also performed a literature review to assess the prevalence of hard-to-interpret design features in tables of simulation studies in three popular statistics journals, finding that many are presented innumerately. We recommend simulation studies be presented in graphical form.

Suggested Citation

  • Alex R Cook & Shanice W L Teo, 2011. "The Communicability of Graphical Alternatives to Tabular Displays of Statistical Simulation Studies," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 6(11), pages 1-7, November.
  • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0027974
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0027974
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Gelman A. & Pasarica C. & Dodhia R., 2002. "Lets Practice What We Preach: Turning Tables into Graphs," The American Statistician, American Statistical Association, vol. 56, pages 121-130, May.
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    Cited by:

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    2. Maria Penna & Mirian Agus & Maribel Peró-Cebollero & Joan Guàrdia-Olmos & Eliano Pessa, 2014. "The use of imagery in statistical reasoning by university undergraduate students: a preliminary study," Quality & Quantity: International Journal of Methodology, Springer, vol. 48(1), pages 173-187, January.

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