Question

Gavin's study compared reading error rates and reading comprehension scores between two groups of 50 third-grade students that received different reading programs. His t test data analysis did not indicate any differences between the two types of instruction. The most likely reason for his findings is that:__________.
a. his measures did not measure reading.
b. his sample is too small.
c. he conducted the wrong analysis.
d. his groups were too similar.

Answer 1

Answer: his groups were too similar.

Explanation:

The t-test is used to check whether there a significant difference exist between means of two types of instructions given. T-test is used for hypothesis testing.

In the scenario above, we are informed that Gavin's study compared reading error rates and the reading comprehension scores between two groups of 50 third-grade students but his t-test data analysis did not show any differences between the two types of instruction that were tested.

The ideal reason for the t-test analysis not to show any differences between the instructions is when the groups are too similar. Due to the similarity, the difference between the means found in the sample will not be statistically different.