Data Simulation using R

Peter McKenna (Heriot-Watt University)

Data simulation is a powerful tool for both research and teaching in psychology. It is useful for research as you can compose analysis scripts for pre-registration purposes, calculate power for non-empirical studies, and improve your statistical knowledge through the reversal of the conventional data analysis process. For teaching, data simulation can create course specific datasets, as well as enhance students’ learning of statistical concepts by allowing them to create and analyse their own simulated datasets. In this session, I will demonstrate live how to simulate bivariate data using the R programming language. In doing so, I will cover the principles of correlation, matrix calculations, and show how to plot real and simulated data against each other. In the broader context, I will also discuss how data simulation can enhance and enrich psychology research and teaching.

In-person: Mary Burton 147, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh; Online: click ‘Join via MS Teams’.