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How Factor Analysis Can Be Used in Classification

Author(s):
Harman, Harry H
Publication Year:
1971
Report Number:
RB-71-65
Source:
ETS Research Bulletin
Document Type:
Report
Page Count:
18
Subject/Key Words:
Classification, Factor Analysis, Measurement Techniques

Abstract

This is a methodological study that suggests a taxometric technique for objective classification of yeasts. It makes use of the mirres method of factor analysis and groups strains of yeast according to their factor profiles. The similarities are judged in the higher-dimensional space determined by the factor analysis, but otherwise rely on the simple concept of "most like" or "neighbor." The proposed techniques are illustrated by means of an example involving 110 strains of yeast with measurements on 30 variables. An anaysis in terms of six factors is obtained and the sixdimensi factor profiles for the strains are the basis for determining neighbors and classifying the strains into groups. The automatic procedure leads to 32 groups. Then, by applying the procedures again, only eight second-order groups, or clusters, emerge. (Author) (18pp.)

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