Discussion Overview
The discussion centers around the calculation of Mean Absolute Percentage Error (M.A.P.E.) using the accuracy() function in the SDMtools package in R. Participants are exploring the interpretation of the output value and its units, particularly whether an output of 10.69 represents 10.69% or 1069%.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant reports an output of 10.69 from the accuracy() function and questions its interpretation as a percentage.
- Another participant notes the difficulty in responding without additional context regarding the output.
- A different participant assumes that the output should be objective since observed and predicted values are required inputs.
- One participant emphasizes the importance of having a description of the units for the input and output of the SDMtools package to understand the meaning of the output.
- Another participant recalls that the accuracy() function does not return MAPE, suggesting that the Forecast package might be the correct one for obtaining MAPE, which would be expressed as a percentage.
- A later reply acknowledges the previous participant's suggestion regarding the Forecast package.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express uncertainty regarding the interpretation of the output value and whether the accuracy() function is appropriate for calculating MAPE. There is no consensus on the correct interpretation or the appropriate package to use.
Contextual Notes
Participants highlight the need for clarity on the units of measurement and the specific function used, indicating potential limitations in understanding the output without proper documentation.