What Makes a Perfect Parent?

In Chapter 5, the authors argue that research refutes the conventional wisdom held by most parents that what a parent makes a difference in whether a child succeeds. When looking at statistical data over a period of time, what does “correlation” mean? How is it different from “causation”? Explain an example from your where you have observed “correlation” being confused with “causation.” Describe, in general terms, the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study (ECLS)? Who conducted it, who was the target of the study, and what was the purpose of the study? According to the data developed from this study, what is more important regarding a child’s success on standardized tests: what a parent does for a child or what a parent is? In your opinion, what might be an explanation for such a strange conclusion? Do you believe this conclusion accurately expresses “causation”?