Chapter 8 - Data on numeric variables

Question 1

A large P-value indicates that

Answer 1

• The null hypothesis is plausible
• The differences we see between the sample/group means could be explained simply in terms of random fluctuations (i.e. just due to chance alone)

Question 2

A small P-value suggests

Answer 2

• That the null hypothesis is not true, i.e. differences exist between some of the (underlying/population) means
• Gives no indication of which (underlying/population) means are different.
• Gives no indication of the size of any differences

Question 3

Analysis of Variance (ANOVA)

Answer 3

A statistical method used to test for differences between the means of more than two independent samples/groups. Based on mathematical theory obtained under idealised assumptions (normal distribution).

Question 4

F-statistic

Answer 4

The ratio of the variability between sample/group means and the variability within the samples/groups. (Shorthand Fº)

Question 5

F-test

Answer 5

A hypothesis test based on the F-distribution. An overall test used to compare the means of more than two independent samples.

Question 6

Hypothesis test

Answer 6

The use of data to assess the strength against the null hypothesis, and hence for the alternative hypothesis.

Question 7

One-way analysis of variance

Answer 7

An analysis of variance involving one categorical variable only.

Question 8

Paired data

Answer 8

The data match up in pairs. The members of the pair are related in some way.

Question 9

Paired data t-test

Answer 9

A form of the t-test that analyses the differences in pairs.