Central tendency is a term for the middle of a distribution of data. You may have talked about averages like a grade point average or the average time spent on social media. In addition to averages, in this course we will also calculate and interpret two other measures of central tendency: the median and the mode.

The mean is the most commonly used form of central tendency and is often, but not always, what people have in mind when they use the term “average.” This module examines in detail the mean and how it is calculated.

The median is a measure of central tendency that identifies the midpoint among the values in a data set. This module examines in detail the median and how it is located.

The mode is the value in a data set that occurs most often. It can be used for any variable, even those at a nominal level of measurement. This module examines in detail the mode and how it is located.

In this module we explore the relationship between measures of central tendency and how they are graphed in frequency distributions.

This module provides opportunities to practice identifying the best measure of central tendency for a given data set.

This module provides a variety of information and tools from the American Psychological Association (APA) that will help inspire you as you complete your coursework and plan your career goals. Explore APA resources on various psychological issues and scholarly research and writing; a list of sites providing valuable resources on diversity, equity, and inclusion in psychology education and in the professional community; resources on a career in psychology; and links to career opportunities at the APA.