Final answer:
The independent variable is the number of credit hours, which is discrete in nature.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question involves determining the independent variable in the scenario where Colton is taking classes. The independent variable is the number of credit hours of the classes Colton signs up for, because it is the variable that can be changed or controlled in the situation. This variable is discrete, as credit hours can only take on certain fixed values (you cannot have half a credit hour, for example).