Question

The Chance article about the Houston magnet schools program described in Exercise 9 also indicated that 517 applicants were black or Hispanic, 292 Asian, and 946 white. Summarize the relative frequency distribution of ethnicity with a sentence or two (in the proper context, of course).

Short answer

29.47% black or Hispanic, 16.64% Asian, 53.91% white.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Problem

This exercise requires us to summarize the relative frequency distribution of the ethnicity of applicants in the Houston magnet schools program as presented in the given data.

Identify the Total Number of Applicants

The total number of applicants can be found by adding together the numbers for all ethnic groups: 517 (black or Hispanic) + 292 (Asian) + 946 (white).

Calculate the Total

Add the numbers: 517 + 292 + 946 = 1755 applicants in total.

Calculate the Relative Frequency for Each Group

The relative frequency is calculated by dividing the number of applicants in each ethnic group by the total number of applicants. For example, the relative frequency for black or Hispanic applicants is \( \frac{517}{1755} \approx 0.2947 \) or 29.47%. Repeat this for each group.

Calculate Relative Frequency for Asian Applicants

The relative frequency for Asian applicants is calculated as \( \frac{292}{1755} \approx 0.1664 \) or 16.64%.

Calculate Relative Frequency for White Applicants

For white applicants, the relative frequency is \( \frac{946}{1755} \approx 0.5391 \) or 53.91%.

Summarize the Relative Frequency Distribution

The relative frequency distribution is as follows: 29.47% of applicants were black or Hispanic, 16.64% were Asian, and 53.91% were white.

Key concepts

Ethnicity

Ethnicity plays a crucial role in understanding the composition of any population, particularly in educational settings. In the context of the Houston magnet schools program, analyzing the ethnicity of applicants helps in comprehending how diverse the applicant pool is. Ethnicity refers to the classification of people based on shared cultural identity, often linked to race, nationality, religion, or language. By knowing the ethnic distribution, educators and policymakers can ensure that the educational opportunities provided are equitable and accessible to all groups. Understanding ethnicity in this setting is not just about numbers. It involves recognizing the unique contributions and challenges faced by each group. For instance, ethnicity influences cultural perspectives, learning styles, and, in some cases, the need for additional support programs. With the data indicating 29.47% of black or Hispanic applicants, 16.64% of Asian applicants, and 53.91% of white applicants, educators can assess whether the magnet schools reflect the city's overall demographic makeup. This breakdown provides insight into potential barriers or encouragements that exist within the application process or outreach efforts. By addressing ethnic diversity, magnet schools can improve educational outcomes and foster a more inclusive environment.

Statistical Analysis

Statistical analysis is an essential process in educational data interpretation. It allows educators and researchers to make sense of collected data effectively. In essence, statistical analysis involves organizing, analyzing, and interpreting data to draw meaningful conclusions. The exercise data regarding Houston magnet schools applicants is a typical example where statistical analysis aids understanding. By calculating the relative frequency distribution, we understand how each ethnicity fares among the total application pool. Here’s how the calculation works:

• First, identify the total number of applicants: 1755 in this case.
• Next, divide the number of applicants from each ethnic group by the total number to find the relative frequency.

For example, the relative frequency for black or Hispanic applicants is calculated as follows:\[\frac{517}{1755} \approx 0.2947 \text{ or } 29.47\%\]This analysis method helps in visualizing data to inform decisions about policy or program adjustments, ensuring that diversity is accurately addressed. Statistical analysis transforms raw data into a clearer picture of reality, supporting more informed educational planning.

Houston Magnet Schools

Houston magnet schools are specialized educational institutions focused on particular themes or talents, such as science, technology, arts, or languages. They are part of a choice-based school system intended to offer students opportunities for enhanced learning that align with their interests and abilities. These schools often draw a diverse range of applicants from various ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds due to their reputation for academic excellence and unique programs. Magnet schools in Houston aim to provide equal access to quality education. By analyzing the relative frequency distribution of applicants by ethnicity, the schools can evaluate their effectiveness in attracting a diverse applicant pool. The data shows that white applicants make up 53.91% of the applicant pool, while 29.47% are black or Hispanic, and 16.64% are Asian. This information is crucial for ensuring that the mission of magnet schools—to promote educational equity—is being fulfilled. It can guide strategies to enhance outreach to underrepresented communities, improving access to the enriching curricula these schools provide. Magnet schools strive to address educational disparities and foster inclusivity through diverse representation within their student bodies. Ultimately, the data allows Houston magnet schools to refine their enrolment processes, aiming to better serve the community's educational needs.