Using a measurement scale believed to produce interval level measurement, an instructor wishes to learn if the variable "attitude toward statistics" will show improvement over the course of a semester in her class. She administers the scale the first and last days of the class and compares the pairs of scores for every student. What test should she use to learn if there is statistical support for her hypothesis that students will show improved attitudes following her course?
A) one sample t
B) two sample independent t
C) two sample dependent t
D) simple ANOVA

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The instructor is comparing the scores of the same group of students at two different times (before and after the course), so she should use a paired or dependent t-test, which is designed for this type of analysis. The other options (one sample t, two sample independent t, and simple ANOVA) are not appropriate for comparing the pre- and post-course scores of the same group of students.

Using a Measurement Scale Believed to Produce Interval Level Measurement