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A Cognitive Interpretation of Data Analysis

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  • Garrett Grolemund
  • Hadley Wickham

Abstract

type="main" xml:id="insr12028-abs-0001"> This paper proposes a scientific model to explain the analysis process. We argue that data analysis is primarily a procedure to build understanding, and as such, it dovetails with the cognitive processes of the human mind. Data analysis tasks closely resemble the cognitive process known as sensemaking. We demonstrate how data analysis is a sensemaking task adapted to use quantitative data. This identification highlights a universal structure within data analysis activities and provides a foundation for a theory of data analysis. The competing tensions of cognitive compatibility and scientific rigour create a series of problems that characterise the data analysis process. These problems form a useful organising model for the data analysis task while allowing methods to remain flexible and situation dependent. The insights of this model are especially helpful for consultants, applied statisticians and teachers of data analysis.

Suggested Citation

  • Garrett Grolemund & Hadley Wickham, 2014. "A Cognitive Interpretation of Data Analysis," International Statistical Review, International Statistical Institute, vol. 82(2), pages 184-204, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:istatr:v:82:y:2014:i:2:p:184-204
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    File URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1111/insr.12028
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Lundberg, C. Gustav, 2000. "Made sense and remembered sense: Sensemaking through abduction," Journal of Economic Psychology, Elsevier, vol. 21(6), pages 691-709, December.
    2. Karl E. Weick & Kathleen M. Sutcliffe & David Obstfeld, 2005. "Organizing and the Process of Sensemaking," Organization Science, INFORMS, vol. 16(4), pages 409-421, August.
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