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Discussion: Using t Tests

This week’s Introduction about a NASA rocket provided an example of when a t test may be used in a real-life situation. In this Discussion, you will analyze a research question of your choice using a t test.

To prepare for this Discussion:

  • Review problems 17–24 on pages 416–417 of your text, which show how t tests can be used to analyze real-life data. Think about how you might answer each of the questions.
  • Think about one small data set that you would like to compare to a proposed mean. For example, you could compare the mean weight of a bag of chocolate chip cookies to the mean that the industry claims. Clearly outline your null and alternative hypothesis statements.
  • Consider why your research question is important.
  • Outline how you would use each of the steps of the four-step hypothesis test process to answer the research question.
  • Think about how using a t test could help your analysis. How is the outcome from the t test used to support the claim made?

By Day 3

Post a 1- to 2-paragraph write-up including the following:

  • Describe your research question, and explain its importance
  • Describe how you would use the four-step hypothesis test process to answer your research question.
  • Explain how using a t test could help you answer your research question.

Be sure to support your ideas by connecting them to the week’s Learning Resources or to something you have read, heard, seen, or experienced.

By Day 5

Read a selection of your colleagues’ postings.

Respond to at least two of your colleague’s postings in one or more of the following ways:

  • Ask a probing question.
  • Share an insight from having read your colleague’s posting.
  • Offer and support an opinion.
  • Validate an idea with your own experience.
  • Expand on your colleague’s posting.

Return to this Discussion in a few days to read the responses to your initial posting. Note what you have learned and/or any insights you have gained as a result of the comments your colleagues made.

Submission and Grading Information

Grading Criteria

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Discussion Rubric