Final answer:
The variable "favorite sport" is qualitative as it categorizes based on individual preferences and cannot be quantified with numbers.
Step-by-step explanation:
The variable "favorite sport" is qualitative because it describes a preference that cannot be quantified with numbers; instead, it places individuals into categories based on their response. Qualitative data relate to the qualities or characteristics of the subjects being observed, and in this case, the type of sport that one prefers.
In the context of a study or survey, qualitative data, such as favorite sport, might help researchers understand trends or preferences among different groups. However, unlike quantitative data, you cannot perform arithmetic operations on qualitative information.
When you work collaboratively to determine the correct data type, you should consider whether the information can be measured or counted (quantitative data) or if it describes a characteristic or category (qualitative data). For example, the number of classes you take per school year is quantitative discrete data because it can be counted and has distinct values, while the type of calculator you use is qualitative because it describes a category.