A Case Study in Statistical Data Analysis: Salary Equity Data at GMU

John J. Miller
and
Donald T. Gantz

George Mason University


ABSTRACT

The Equity Office and the Provost Office were concerned about salary equity here at GMU. They asked Dr. Miller and Dr. Gantz to examine data on the relative levels of salaries paid to male and female faculty. The data analysis involves subtle accounting for covariates such as experience and discipline oriented market factors. Superficial salary comparisons do not necessarily provide the correct results. This colloquium will present the data analysis issues considered for this study. Both Dr. Gantz and Dr. Miller have had considerable experience as expert witnesses in discrimination litigation and have used this experience in their analysis.