11.2 Some terms

This section is based on Feinberg & Rubright (2016).

11.2.1 Factor

A factor in a simulation is akin to a factor in an analysis of variance (ANOVA) study.

It is an independent variable, usually categorical, that is manipulated by the researcher.

For example, if the simulation generates and studies small, medium, and large sample sizes, then sample size is a factor of study.

11.2.2 Level/Condition

Conditions, sometimes referred to as levels, are realizations of factors.

If sample size is the factor of interest, “small” would be one of the conditions

11.2.3 Condition combination

factors are crossed, meaning that each condition from each factor is realized.

So, if a sample size factor (small, medium, and large) is crossed with a dimensionality factor (unidimensional vs. multidimensional), there would be a total of six condition (combinations).

11.2.4 Replication

Within each condition, researchers often simulate data and conduct a series of analysis.

The number of replications refers to the number of times the entire experiment is repeated within each condition.

References

Feinberg, R., & Rubright, J. (2016). Conducting Simulation Studies in Psychometrics. 35(2), 36–49. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/emip.12111